Define: Computer Devices

What Computer Devices Means in a Contract

Computer Devices is a defined term used to capture the physical hardware through which a party accesses systems, stores information, or communicates electronically. It typically includes laptops, desktops, mobile phones, tablets, and increasingly wearable technology such as smartwatches. The purpose of defining the term is to give both parties clarity about the scope of equipment covered by obligations relating to security, data handling, acceptable use, and return of property.

In most agreements, the definition is drafted broadly so that it captures not only devices provided by one party but also personal devices used to access company systems or data, commonly referred to as bring-your-own-device arrangements. This breadth matters because modern work increasingly happens across a mix of company-issued and personal hardware, and a narrow definition could leave gaps in coverage.

The term also anchors related obligations elsewhere in the contract, such as requirements to encrypt data, install security software, or return devices upon termination. Without a clear definition, disputes can arise over whether a particular gadget, such as a personal tablet or a company-issued wearable, falls within scope.

How Computer Devices Is Defined or Measured

There is no single statutory definition of Computer Devices, so its meaning depends entirely on how the contract describes it. Most definitions use an illustrative, non-exhaustive list, naming categories like laptops, desktops, mobiles, tablets, and wearable technology, followed by a catch-all phrase such as.