Learning Online: Computer Check
Is your computer ready for distance learning?
Computer Hardware Equipment Requirements
- An account with an ISP (Internet Service Provider) to access the Internet
Note: a broadband connection (cable or DSL) is strongly recommended
- A modem that can maintain a connection speed of at least 56kbps or higher
- A personal computer running either a recent version of Microsoft Windows (XP or Vista), or a Macintosh with OS 10.3 or later
- A valid e-mail address (from your ISP or free accounts such as Yahoo)
- 512 MB RAM (or more)
- Sound card and speakers
- A CD RW or DVD RW with at least 48X speed (usually optional but may be required for your course)
- A printer (optional, but recommended)
- Portable storage device such as USB Thumb Drive
Commonly Used Software Applications
- Internet Explorer 6.0 or later
- Mozilla Firefox 2.0 or later
- Up-to-date Browser Plug-ins: Java 2 Runtime, Flash, Adobe Acrobat Reader
Use the Browser Checkup to determine if your plug-ins need upgrading. Visit the Distance Learning Information Center for information on downloading and installing these plug-ins.
- A word processing application (like Microsoft Word)
- Microsoft's PowerPoint (optional, but recommended)
- Your course may have additional software requirements. Check with your instructor.