IITM BS Laptop and System Requirements (RAM, OS, Internet)

To study in the IIT Madras BS programme, you need your own laptop or desktop. The minimum is 8 GB RAM, an Intel 8th generation or AMD 4th generation processor, 500 GB storage, a webcam and a mic. You also need at least a 2 Mbps internet connection and a phone with a front camera for proctored sessions. The rules are the same for Data Science (DS) and Electronic Systems (ES).

The handbooks call these mandatory system specifications and say some of them may be updated as technology changes.

Hardware you need

The handbooks say every student must have a laptop or a desktop with this setup. They do not list a phone or tablet as a replacement.

Software and operating system

• Operating system: at least Windows 10, Ubuntu LTS 20.04 (or an equivalent), or Mac OS Mojave.
• Dual boot: being able to dual boot is good to have. If you cannot, your system must support virtualisation software such as VirtualBox so that you can run Ubuntu 20.04 inside it.
• Why Ubuntu matters: the handbooks say the System Commands course is taught mainly on Ubuntu 20.04. In DS this course is part of the Diploma in Programming.
• Browser: the latest version of Google Chrome, signed in with a Google account.
• Google tools: you should know the basics of Google Docs, Sheets and Slides, especially how to work together on shared files.
• Course software: any other software a course asks for.

Internet speed

You need at least a 2 Mbps connection to follow sessions without breaks. The handbooks strongly suggest a broadband connection with much higher speed for a better experience.

For proctored exams and online interactions

• The latest version of Chrome is preferred.
• A mobile phone with a front camera and a good internet connection. The DS handbook says VoLTE connections are ideal. The ES handbook says at least 4G.
• A mic and speaker so that you can talk to and hear the person on the other side.
• Any app the programme asks you to install for the interaction or exam.

Quizzes and end term exams are written in person at an exam centre. Students who write from outside India use remote proctoring instead, as the exam centre policy explains. For how the weekly online work fits in, read how IITM BS classes work.

The system compatibility test

Every student must take part in a system compatibility test. It checks that your setup meets the requirements above. The admin team announces the dates, and you must complete the test on those dates.

Extra for Electronic Systems: the lab kit

ES students also need a lab kit for doing lab experiments at home. It has to be bought separately, and its cost is not part of the course fee. The ES handbook describes it as a USB-powered instrument that works as a function generator and an oscilloscope. It is expected to support Windows and Linux. See the ES lab kit guide for details.

Common questions

Can I use a MacBook for IITM BS?

Yes, if it runs Mac OS Mojave or newer and meets the hardware minimums. Since the System Commands course uses Ubuntu 20.04, make sure your Mac can run Ubuntu, either through dual boot or through virtualisation software such as VirtualBox.

Is 8 GB RAM enough?

8 GB is the minimum the handbooks set. They add that being able to install more memory later is good to have, so pick a laptop that lets you upgrade RAM if you can.

Can I study only on my phone?

No. The handbooks require a laptop or desktop. Your phone is needed as well, for proctored exams and online interactions, where a front camera and good mobile data are asked for.

Do I need an SSD?

An SSD is listed as desirable, not required. The minimum is 500 GB of storage, and 1 TB is suggested.