Technical Requirements

Photo: Closeup of hands on laptop keyboard.

Before Your Course Begins, Ensure that You are Tech Ready

Students taking courses at a distance need regular access to a desktop or laptop computer with Internet access. Because your computer is your connection to your courses—essentially the way you “go to class”—you also need to have a backup plan should your primary computer become unavailable. Check the requirements below to ensure that your computer is equipped, and be sure to review the information about protecting your computer on our Tech Support page.

If you are seeking a degree, it may be possible to receive a loan through financial aid for a computer. The Academic Year Revision Request form may be submitted when a student has a specific type of additional or unexpected education-related cost that is not originally included in their cost of attendance. This includes computer costs, transportation, rent/mortgage, child care costs, etc.

Check Your Computer

Students taking courses at a distance need regular access to a desktop or laptop computer with Internet access. Make sure the computer you plan to use is up to the task! Check your computer here.

Note: Please ensure that all popup blockers are configured to accept popups from https://canvas.wsu.edu, or disable them.

Check Your Computer

Test Your Internet Connection Speed

Your online courses may require you to access media, including videos, that require adequate internet connection speed in order to view.

Perform the speed test to ensure you’ll be able to view course videos and other media successfully.

The speed test checks the average download and upload speeds on your computer. Connection speeds of at least 2 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload is sufficient for Zoom meetings and virtual proctoring.

Internet Speed Test

Minimum Requirements

TechnologyMinimum Requirement
Internet Connection3Mbit upload minimum (5MBps or higher recommended), 3Mbit download minimum (16MBps or higher recommended)
Internet Speed Testhttp://wsu-aoi.speedtestcustom.com/
Operating System Windows 10 or MAC OS
CPUQuad core or better 2Ghz or higher (i3/i5/i7 or AMD equivalent)
System Memory4GB or more
Windows browser requirementsDownload the most recent version of Google Chrome or Firefox (free downloads), or use Microsoft Edge.
Note: Please ensure that all popup blockers are configured to accept popups from https://canvas.wsu.edu, or disable them.
Webcam 720p (recommended) or better (built-in or external)
Microphone Built-in or external (external headset recommended)

If you aren’t able to access videos or have questions, contact WSU Online Support at 800-222-4978 (select 1 for faculty and technical support), or send an email to wsuonline.support@wsu.edu.