Your internet connection will likely work fine for online classes if your YouTube and Netflix videos play well now.

You will need to install and test the web conferencing software or browser add-on for your class. An email is sent to you with the specific connection, setup, and testing information for your class.

Different instructors are using different web conferencing systems to provide the best experience for their specific class. So if you are taking multiple classes, the software you need to install and test may be different for different classes. The email sent about each class will explain what is required for that class.

Any relatively new computer will likely be fine for the online classes. It needs to have a current web browser installed. You’ll need speakers or headphones to hear the instructor.

Each web conferencing system has specific minimum requirements. Those requirements are usually only important for older, lower-performance computers. Anything purchased new in the last 3-4 years is going to be more than the minimum.

The operating system on any relatively new computer will likely be fine for online classes. It does need to have a current web browser installed however.

If you are using a mobile device (phone or tablet) it is important to download the free app to make that web conferencing work the best. Depending on the class meeting software, there are also apps or browser add-ons that are required for it to work well.

The class meeting products expect a current version of the web browser, and a relatively recent operating system (such as Windows 7 or later, Mac OS X 10.12 or later, Android 4.4 or later, iOS 8.1.2 or later).

A microphone would be needed to talk with instructors during the class meeting. Most laptops and tablets have one built-in. For a desktop computer a headset can be used. If you don't have a microphone, you can still participate in the class using a chat window that will let you type your responses and feedback to the instructor.

You don't need a webcam unless the class specifically says it is required to participate in the class. Some of the instructors like to see the students, and may want you to turn on your webcam if you have one.

Very small screens (like a smartphone) will be hard to see what the instructor is showing or doing and likely won't work well for you. A smartphone can participate in the online classes, but it will be hard to see details on the screen. It’s best to use a desktop or laptop computer, or larger tablet.

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