Technical Requirements

Online Course Technical Requirements

Use the following as a guideline for your Online Course Minimum Technical Requirements. Be aware that individual courses can have specific software and/or different hardware requirements to be able to complete that course.

Hardware and operating system requirements:

• PC: Windows 10
• Mac: OS X with most recent version
• 512MB RAM (memory) minimum
• 500MB of Free Disk Space
• Display set to 1024 x 768 or higher resolution preferred
• High Speed Internet connection
• Note: Desktop computers and/or laptop computers are recommended for online courses; students using mobile devices may encounter issues.

Software (Browsers):

More than one browser is highly recommended. If one isn’t working, switch to another one.

Supported browsers:

• For PC: Chrome, Firefox, and/or MicroSoft Edge (install at least two browsers)
• For Mac: Chrome, Firefox, or Safari 6 
• Check each browser you are using with Blackboard Learn help Browser Checker

Required Browser Settings and Plug-ins:

• Allow pop-up windows from all genesee.edu sites
• Allow cookies from all genesee.edu sites
• Javascript enabled

Software (Other):

• Word processor compatible with Microsoft Word 
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Silverlight
• Note: Refer to the specific course technical requirements as the following or other software may be required to be installed for course completion.
  • Java Runtime Environment
  • Windows Media Player
  • Quicktime Player
  • Flash Player 
• Note: Suggested secure site for downloading software is ninite.com

Minimum computer skills you must be comfortable with:

• Word processing skills: create, open, save, print, and edit documents.
• Copy from a flash drive or the Internet to a specific directory on a hard drive.
• Ability to download and install from the Internet.
• Ability to upload documents.
• Knowledge in navigating the Internet.
• Proficient in use of search engines for research.
• Ability to send and receive e-mails with attachments.
• Note: If you need to upgrade your computer skills please consider taking one of the excellent introductory computer courses offered at GCC, such as CIS102 Introduction to Computers.

Assistive Technologies:

• If you have a physical, psychological, medical, or learning disability that may impact your coursework or participation in an online course, please contact Access and Accommodation Services, Room C231 Batavia, 585-343-0055, ext. 6351. The Assessment team will determine with you what accommodations are necessary, appropriate and reasonable.  All information and documentation is confidential.