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Computer Requirements

To take online courses, students need Internet access, an email address, and a web browser.
The following minimum computer hardware and software specifications are required for access to online course material:

Computer Operating Systems

Windows 2000
Windows XP Service Pack 2 (Home Edition and Professional)
Windows Vista
Mac OS X 10.3.x, 10.4.x, 10.4.x, 10.5.x

Computer Processor Speeds

There is no specific RAM or CPU speed requirement for client machines; however, as with any Internet application, the slower the computer, the slower pages and tools will load.

Supported Web Browsers

On Microsoft Windows operating system:

  • Internet Explorer 6 SP1, 6 SP2, 7.0
  • Firefox 1.0.x, 1.5.x, 2.0.x
  • Mozilla 1.7.x

For Mac OS operating system:

  • Safari 3.1.x
  • Internet Explorer 6 SP1, 6 SP2, 7.0
  • Firefox 1.0.x

Unsupported Browsers for Blackboard

  • Firefox 1.5 for Mac OS

Internet Connection

  • Minimum running speed of 56 Kbps.
  • Preferred High Speed Internet (Cable, DSL, etc.)

Java Support

For your browser to run certain features, a supported Java plug-in must be installed. These are part of the Sun Microsystems Java Runtime Environment (JRE) installation package. The following JRE versions are supported. Any other Java versions may cause problems while uploading assignments, taking exams, and posting discussions.

  • 1.5.0_07 (Recommended)
  • 1.5.0_04 to 1.5.0_06
  • 1.4.2_x to 1.4.2_06
  • 1.3.1 on Mac OS operating system only

To find links to a supported version of Java, as well as other plug-ins needed to view audio and video content, go to https://elearn.usu.edu/content/computer_setup2.htm. This site provides instructions on installing a supported version of Java. It also gives additional tips for preparing your computer to operate in the Blackboard environment.


Additional Plug-ins
Some courses have audio and video content built into them, or display content using PDFs. You may need additional plug-ins such as Adobe Flash Player, QuickTime Player, Real Media Player, or Windows Media Player. To find links to these plug-ins, visit https://elearn.usu.edu/content/computer_setup2.htm.