Student: What are the technical/computer requirements to take an online course?
You will learn about the technical specifications your computer should meet in order to fully participate in your online course in Canvas.
Recommended Software and Hardware for PC or MAC
Operating System: Windows 7, 8, 10 or Mac OS X/X+
Processor: 2+ GHz
Memory: 4+ GB
Web browser: Chrome, or Firefox (use the current version)
Display: 1920x1080
Software: Microsoft Office 365 or similar (Office 365 is free for faculty and students)
Internet connection: FiOS/DSL/Cable or similar
E-mail: CSUF student email account
Sound card or built-in sound: required
Microphone: may be required for some courses or academic programs
Webcam: may be required for some courses or academic programs
Recommended web browser settings
Mobile devices
Many courses are set up to be very mobile friendly and others are not. Almost all of the features and tools in Canvas allow you to interact with the content and with other participants on a mobile device.
However, given that most discussions require well-thought-out and well-typed responses, it is not recommended that you use a mobile device with a small screen to post your responses to a discussion. Nevertheless, for reading/viewing of posts, a mobile device can be quite handy.
Read this guide to learn about the Canvas Student app which may improve your course experience when using a mobile device.
Technical Support
If you are in need of technical support, as a student, you should contact the:
Phone: 657-278-8888
Email: [email protected]
Walk-in: Student Genius Corner
Related Guides
Article Summary
You have now learned about the technical specifications your computer should meet in order to fully participate in your online course in Canvas.