Minimum Computer Specifications
To ensure reasonable speed for interactive online courses, all participants must have, at a minimum, the following specifications on their computers:
Operating System and Software Requirements
- Windows 10 and 11
- macOS Monterey (12.7) or higher
- Microsoft 365
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
Supported Browsers
Windows
- Google Chrome (recommended)
- Mozilla Firefox (recommended)
- Microsoft Edge
Macintosh
- Google Chrome (recommended)
- Mozilla Firefox (recommended)
- Safari
Run the browser checker to see whether Canvas supports your browser and operating system.
Internet Connection
You will need a strong Internet broadband connection (DSL, Cable or faster) to participate in the online courses and a headset with attached microphone for some courses. If you do not have a computer, or a fast internet connection, computer labs are available for use by CSUDH students, faculty, and staff.
Recommended Software
- Microsoft 365 – Available for faculty and students at no cost. Login to MyCSUDH > Using your campus account. Click on Office 365 under Launchpad.
- Adobe Reader
- Adobe Creative Cloud – Available for faculty and students at no cost. Login to MyCSUDH > Using your campus account. Click on Adobe under Launchpad.
Hardware Requirements
- 4-8 GB of RAM
- Cable, DSL or faster speed preferred
- Sound card & speakers
Canvas
What are the browser and computer requirements for Canvas products? Click here to learn.
Zoom
Many virtual classes (online classes with scheduled meetings) require the use of Zoom. In most cases, you will access your Zoom meeting through a link provided by your instructor or the instructor may instruct you to use the Zoom link in your Canvas or Blackboard course. The student may be required to enable or install a browser extension before accessing Zoom on the computer for the first time. You will need to sign-in to ZOOM using your CSUDH account.
Respondus LockDown Browser™
Is a secured browser used solely for taking online exams and quizzes for courses at CSUDH. If your instructor has chosen to require the Lockdown browser for their quiz or exam, you will need to install it one time for free on the computer you will use. Some instructors may also require the use of Respondus Monitor in addition to the Lockdown Browser (see below). Once installed, you simply open it, log in to Canvas and take your quiz. Read more about Respondus Lockdown Browser.
Computer Literacy Skill
You need to have a basic knowledge of computer and Internet skills in order to be successful in an online course. Here are some of the highlights:
- Knowledge of terminology, such as browser, IMHO, application, etc.
- Understanding of basic computer hardware and software; ability to perform computer operations, such as:
- Using keyboard and mouse
- Managing files and folders: save, name, copy, move, backup, rename, delete, check properties
- Software installation, security and virus protection
- Using software applications, such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, email clients
- Knowledge of copying and pasting, spell-checking, saving files in different formats
- Sending and downloading attachments