Research Workstation & Device Support

We provide support for computing equipment used in research. This includes workstations used for research regardless of funding source, any machines purchased with research grants, and all computing equipment located in research spaces. We offer consultation services for research computing needs such as new equipment acquisition and hardware upgrades to ensure optimal research capabilities.

Prerequisites and Getting Started

• Research equipment must comply with university network security standards

• All research computers must run supported operating systems (Windows 11, macOS, or approved Linux distributions)

• Research hardware requires grant or departmental funding (not covered by centralized funding model)

How to Begin Using This Service

1. Submit a New Research Workstation or Device Request for quotes or support selecting, purchasing, or setting up a new research workstation or research computing device.

2. Submit an Other Research Workstation and Device Support Request for all other support needs that are not about a new workstation or device.

Features:

• Standard computer configurations 

  • Additionally, research workstations are also readily available in B & C configurations

• Standard software installed 

• Consultation services for research computing needs

• Research hardware troubleshooting and support

• Software installation and configuration

• Research equipment purchase consultation

• Research hardware upgrade services

• Research-specific technology recommendations

• Support of the following current operating systems:

  • Microsoft Windows 11

  • Microsoft Windows 11 (including Windows Subsystem for Linux)

  • Apple macOS

  • Linux distributions for specialized research needs

• Integration with campus data center services

• Security management for research devices

More Information:

• Contact the ITS Service Desk

Related Articles:

• Research Technology FAQ: Non-Centrally Funded Equipment

• Research Workstation Options: B & C Configurations

• Standards for Connecting Servers to the University Network

• University's Information Security Policy

• Unmanaged Devices Connecting to the University Network

More Information

Important Notes:

• Research technology falls outside the centralized funding model - funding is the responsibility of research groups, departments, or grant funding

• Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025 - all research computers must transition to Windows 11 or receive special accommodation

• Procurement of new computers can take 3-4 months or longer - early planning is essential

• ITS reserves the right to suspend network access for devices that represent security threats

Limitations:

• Research hardware requires grant or departmental funding (ITS does not fund replacement of research equipment)

• Support is provided on a best-effort basis for specialized or legacy research equipment

• Devices running unsupported operating systems may require network isolation or special security measures