Hardware Recommendations

Modified on Mon, 13 Jul at 10:58 AM

This article covers ProCirrus's hardware procurement recommendations for workstations, laptops, printers, and network equipment. It outlines what your firm can purchase independently, what ProCirrus needs to procure on your behalf, and the minimum specifications to ensure smooth performance on the ProZone.

Overview

ProCirrus does not recommend that clients procure their own network switches or firewalls, as ProCirrus requires specific models and features to properly manage and secure your local network. Network devices are generally ordered as part of the client onboarding process.

Provided that workstations and laptops meet or exceed our minimum specifications, clients are free to purchase their own computers. If your firm prefers, ProCirrus can procure standard configurations of hardware on your behalf through our vendor partnerships.

Workstation Recommendations

Most modern computers work very well with the ProZone provided they meet our minimum specifications. Performance depends on the general health of the computer, the local software in use, and importantly the load placed on the computer by the monitors and their aggregate resolution.

Category	Recommendations
Processor	Generally speaking, the more you have the better. The minimum is a quad (4) core processor; a hexa (6) core is recommended.
Memory (RAM)	We strongly recommend at least 16GB of RAM on any workstation not running a dedicated video card. If you intend to run RAM-intensive local applications, check their requirements to make sure you have adequate memory above this recommendation.
Video	We recommend dedicated, non-integrated video cards for all PCs, and require them for running multiple monitors on machines with less than 16GB of RAM. Most low-cost computers do not include a dedicated video card, which means the video display uses motherboard memory (RAM) to operate. In most cases, integrated video cards can use up to 2GB of the computer's RAM.
Hard Drive	All standard hard drives are sufficient for cloud usage, but for speed and power we recommend SSD drives when possible.
Operating System	Windows 11 or higher.
Vendor	We highly recommend using a reliable hardware vendor with a solid warranty and end-user support. Less expensive options are usually cheaper for a reason.
Dual Monitor Video	We highly recommend configurations with video cards that support at least 2 monitors.
Mac OS	Although Macs work with Citrix, we generally do not recommend them, both for compatibility issues and for overall cost.
Software	Try to avoid PCs with bloatware or introductory anti-virus software. If the PC is to be managed by ProCirrus, we will install antivirus as part of our PC Optimize service.
Chassis	We recommend the Dell OptiPlex Small Form Factor for its size and overall performance.
Warranty and Service	We recommend Dell's 3 Year Basic Hardware Service with 3 Year NBD Onsite Service after Remote Diagnosis.
Accidental Damage	We don't recommend hardware protection for workstations unless they are exposed to risky environments (e.g. restaurants).

Laptop Recommendations

Laptops have numerous options, from screen size to overall weight, so we recommend that clients with specific needs build their own at a reputable hardware vendor site like Dell.com. When building your laptops, please be mindful of the recommendations below. If you prefer, ProCirrus can procure a standard laptop on your behalf.

Category	Recommendations
Processor	Generally speaking, the more you have the better. The minimum is a quad (4) core processor; a hexa (6) core is recommended.
Memory (RAM)	8GB of memory is the minimum and 16GB is recommended. If you intend to run other local applications, check their requirements to make sure you have adequate memory.
Video	Dedicated video RAM of 512MB or higher (see Docking Station).
Hard Drive	We recommend solid-state hard drives for laptops for speed and battery life.
Operating System	Windows 11 or higher.
Vendor	We highly recommend using a reliable hardware vendor with a solid warranty and end-user support. Less expensive options are usually cheaper for a reason. We recommend Dell.
Docking Station	If the laptop is for office and travel use, we recommend models that support docking stations and dual monitor support.
Software	Try to avoid PCs with bloatware or introductory anti-virus software. If the PC is to be managed by ProCirrus, we will install antivirus as part of our PC Optimize service.
Chassis	An example would be Dell Latitude 5000 series laptops.
Warranty and Service	We recommend Dell's 3 Year Basic Hardware Service with 3 Year NBD Onsite Service after Remote Diagnosis.
Accidental Damage	We recommend hardware protection for laptops equal to the warranty window (i.e. 3 years).

Printer Recommendations

There are numerous factors to consider when choosing a printer. The following are our recommendations for desktop printers that work with the ProCirrus Cloud. If you are considering an enterprise-level machine, we can discuss requirements with your printer vendor.

Category	Recommendations
Ethernet	Optional, but we highly recommend printers that support IP configurations, which allow for remote management and printing.
Scan to SMTP & Email	Allows for simple and secure scanning to cloud drives and email accounts.
IPP with Authorization	Allows for secure remote printing without VPN.
Example	For basic desktop usage, the OfficeJet Pro 8600 Plus e-All-in-One Wireless Color Printer with Scanner, Copier & Fax is a cost-effective option.

Network Equipment

ProCirrus requires specific firewalls as part of our ProGateway service to ensure your security and to support overall network management. Clients may procure network switches provided they comply with the following recommendations.

Category	Recommendations
Firewalls	ProCirrus will procure the appropriate firewall for your firm based on your size and needs. Using the correct firewall is important for your network security and the active management of your ISP.
Network Switches	Any network switch must be "managed," and we generally recommend HP switches. In most cases, we do not recommend Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches; we recommend that devices have their own power supply. Avoiding PoE switches reduces the chances of signal corruption.
Examples	Standard switches: 8 port: 1810-8G v2 Switch (J9802A); 24 port: 1810-24G v2 Switch (J9803A); 48 port: 1810-48G Switch (J9660A). 48 Port Power over Ethernet: 2910al-48G-PoE+.
WiFi	ProCirrus recommends separate PoE WiFi devices for superior performance over WiFi-enabled firewalls. We usually procure WiFi units along with firewalls for our clients.

Tip: Not sure whether to procure hardware on your own or let ProCirrus handle it? Reach out to ProCirrus Support and we'll help you decide based on your firm's needs.