Technology Purchasing
Before purchasing any technology hardware, software or online service, contact COSAM IT.
COSAM IT reviews technology purchases to ensure compatibility with university systems, compliance with Auburn policies and long-term support. Technology purchased without prior review may not be supported or approved for use on the Auburn University network.
If you are planning a technology purchase, begin by contacting COSAM IT or submitting a support request. This helps ensure the item meets university requirements and can be supported after it is deployed.
Technology Purchasing Guide
| Item type | Before purchasing | How it should be purchased | Key notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computers, laptops, tablets, mobile devices, e-ink devices | Contact COSAM IT | Must be ordered through COSAM IT | COSAM IT uses standardized Apple and Dell options. Unapproved equipment may not be supported or allowed on the AU network. |
| Docking stations and hub monitors | Contact COSAM IT | Must be ordered through COSAM IT | COSAM IT can confirm compatibility with your computer and workspace setup. |
| Standard monitors and printers | Contact COSAM IT | Must be ordered through COSAM IT | COSAM IT can confirm approved models and network compatibility. |
| Servers and network-attached storage | Contact COSAM IT | Must be ordered through COSAM IT | Requires review for security, storage, networking and support needs. |
| Keyboards, mice, USB flash drives, cables, adapters, and headphones | Check with COSAM IT first | May be purchased after guidance | COSAM IT can determine whether an existing or preferred option is available. |
| External or internal hard drives | Check with COSAM IT first | May be purchased after guidance | Storage devices may raise security, backup and data-management concerns. |
| Software, online services or software bundled with hardware | Contact COSAM IT before purchase or use | Requires review before purchase | Vendor vetting may be required. COSAM IT can check whether an approved option already exists. |
| Digital cameras, webcams, scanners and biometric devices | Contact COSAM IT | Requires review before purchase | COSAM IT can evaluate compatibility, privacy, security and support issues. |
| Copiers | Contact COSAM IT | Requires coordination before purchase or lease | Existing university contracts may apply. |
| Security cameras | Contact COSAM IT | Requires coordination with Facilities | Cameras require additional review before purchase or installation. |
| Internet-connected devices, sensors and other networked equipment | Contact COSAM IT | Requires review before purchase or use | Any device that connects to Auburn’s wired or wireless network must be reviewed. |
| Personally owned equipment | Not supported | Do not purchase for university use expecting COSAM IT support | COSAM IT does not configure, troubleshoot or support personally owned devices. |
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Standard Purchases
Computers, laptops, tablets, docking stations, hub monitors, monitors, printers, servers and network-attached storage should be purchased through COSAM IT using standard, supported models. This helps ensure devices are compatible with university systems and can be maintained over time.
Purchases that Require Review
Many other technology purchases must be reviewed before an order is placed. This includes external storage devices, software, cloud-based tools, online services, scanners, cameras, biometric devices and other networked equipment.
If you are unsure whether a purchase requires review, contact COSAM IT before proceeding.
Specialized Requests
Some technology purchases require additional coordination. Requests involving servers, networked storage, security cameras or other infrastructure-related systems may require review by COSAM IT and, in some cases, other university units.
Technology purchases connected to grants or externally funded projects should also be reviewed in advance.
Grant-Funded & Larger Technology Projects
Major technology projects, including those supported by grant funds, should be coordinated with COSAM IT from the beginning. This helps ensure the project meets college and university requirements for security, compatibility, support and long-term maintenance.
Projects involving outside vendors, contracted services or other technology-related support should not move forward without advance review and approval from COSAM IT.
