Computer Requirements
Taking distance learning courses means your computer must be ready and able to use all functions required by the learning management system at the University of Wisconsin- Platteville.
If you need assistance, contact the Help Desk at 608.342.1400 or helpdesk@uwplatt.edu.
Tablet, Mobile and Chromebook Support
While Chromebooks, tablets and other mobile devices can be used for some tasks in online learning, they are not sufficient for completing all the necessary online learning activities and program requirements. For some tasks, you will need access to a laptop or desktop computer. Specific courses may require full versions of Office 365 and other external applications which are not available for mobile devices or Chromebooks.
Component Minimum Requirements
| Component | Minimum Requirements |
|---|---|
| Browsers | Chrome (latest version) Edge (latest version) Firefox (latest version) Safari (latest version–Macintosh only) See Canvas Browser Recommendations |
| Browser (Tablets and mobile devices) | See Canvas Mobile Device Recommendations |
| Browser Plug-ins | JavaScript and cookies enabled Adobe Acrobat Reader |
| Internet | DSL, Cable, or other Broadband connection with a minimum of 10 Mbps download speed |
| Operating Systems | Windows 10 or MAC OS 10.10 or later Anti-virus program (updated regularly) |
| You must have the ability to send and receive messages from your UW-Platteville email | |
| Multimedia | Monitor capable of 1024 x 768 resolution Some courses may require a headset with an attached microphone, sound card and speakers or headphones, and a webcam |
| MS Office Suite | Office 365 – MS Office for Students |
| Exams | Online course instructors may choose to utilize Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor for their exams. Respondus LockDown Browser is a custom browser that locks down the testing environment within a learning management system and requires the student to download the free Respondus Lockdown Browser on the computer where exams are taken. Respondus Monitor builds upon LockDown Browser, using a student’s webcam and video analytics to prevent cheating. |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM or higher |
| Storage | 1 GB min available |
| Processor | 2.0 GHz Intel or AMD processor |
VMware
VMware is a software option for accessing software applications through the campus virtual desktop. The application connects to a remote server and works the same as a physical computer. This cloud computing solution simulates a standard desktop environment including applications and printing from a central repository. A user can connect to this virtual desktop remotely, over the internet, from a variety of devices. Note, however, that VMWare requires a strong Internet connection and will not replace the need for a laptop or desktop computer that meets the minimum requirements above.
If you are uncertain if your course will need additional software, please check with your instructor.
Corporate and Personal Firewalls
Many corporations and individuals have installed firewalls to protect the computers on their network. Firewalls can serve two purposes:
- Prevent unwanted intrusion into the network (e.g., from hackers, viruses)
- Control unwanted traffic to unapproved sites
If you are at work and encounter a firewall-related error message or have problems accessing restricted resources, you may need to contact your corporate IT group for assistance.
If you are using your personal computer and have installed and/or activated firewall or security software, you will need to verify the course sites are not blocked and that ports 80 (standard Web port) and 443 (secure sockets port) are open to your Web browser.