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Stanford University Device Ownership

Last Updated: 2/6/2025

This page clarifies that any equipment acquired using Stanford funds, including computers and mobile devices, is considered Stanford property. Consequently, these items are subject to university policies and procedures regarding their usage, maintenance, and eventual disposal.

Please reference the following resources for more detailed information on equipment management, purchasing protocols, and related policies:

  • 5.2.4 Surplus Property Sales | Administrative Guide
    • Key highlight: Departments may not give, sell or donate property to individuals, including Stanford employees and students, or to non-Stanford entities, including non-profits. If a department arranges a buyer to purchase property, the sale amount must be approved by Surplus Property Sales (SPS). All sale transactions must go through SPS.
  • Disposal or Replacement: End-User Computers, Tablets and Phones | Office of Research Administration
    • Key highlight: The purchase of a laptop from Stanford for personal use occurs on a limited basis and requires written approval at the school, department, and business unit level, as well as the Property Management Office. If a staff person wishes to purchase their used laptop, follow the specific steps outlined on this page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stanford funds refer to financial resources provided by the university for various purposes, including:

  1. General Funds: University operating funds allocated to departments for day-to-day expenses.
  2. Grant Funds: Money received from external funding agencies for specific research projects.
  3. Sponsored Research Funds: Funds from industry or other organizations to support research activities.
  4. Endowment Income: Earnings from the university's endowment used for specific programs or initiatives.
  5. Gifts and Donations: Contributions from alumni or donors designated for particular uses.
  6. Departmental Funds: Budgets allocated to specific departments for their operational needs.

Any device purchased using Stanford funds, including laptops, desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones, is considered Stanford property. This includes any accessories purchased alongside these devices.

No, devices purchased with Stanford funds must be returned to the university upon termination of your association with Stanford.

Please follow the Property Management Office's outlined steps here: https://ora.stanford.edu/ora-units/property-management-office/disposal-or-replacement-end-user-computers-tablets-and-phones.

You can also submit a ticket with SoE IT for assistance.

Report any damage or loss immediately to the Privacy Office. Report a Lost or Stolen Device | University IT.

SoE IT and University IT are responsible for maintaining and supporting devices purchased with university funds.

Management software such as Jamf, BigFix, and VLRE are installed to administer Stanford-owned devices.