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What are the computer hardware and software recommendations for taking online classes?

One of the most common questions that the Liberty University IT HelpDesk handles comes from students asking if their computer is capable of getting them through their career at Liberty University, and what we recommend if a student is looking to purchase a new computer.

An option that is available to students, faculty, and staff is to purchase a computer through the Liberty University IT Marketplace. The IT Marketplace is an Apple Authoirzed Campus Store at Liberty University that has also partnered with Dell and Lenovo to offer machines and accessories for students, faculty, and staff. We also offer manufacturer warranties, and SafeWare coverage. Safeware includes accidental damage, and theft protection, alongside nationwide or mail in support for devices.

Regardless of where you choose to purchase your computer system, our recommended specifications are:

At least 4GB of memory
Intel i-Series (i3, i5, i7) or equivalent processor
At least 128 GB of hard drive space (Solid State) or 160GB (Spinning Disk Drive)
802.11n or 802.11ac Wireless (recommended, but not required)
256 MB of graphics memory
Operating System: Windows 7 or higher or Mac OS X 10.10.5 or later

Apple Computers

If you wish to purchase an Apple brand computer, any computer that ships with OS X 10.10.5 or later and has an Intel processor will have the hardware required for a good experience with Liberty University.

Tablets

Blackboard is not fully compatible with the mobile operating systems of tablet computers. Functions such as videos, presentations, and advanced navigation features might not work, and for this reason, the IT HelpDesk does not fully support mobile devices. Tablets are not recommended for use as a main device for schoolwork.

Netbooks

Netbooks are small inexpensive laptops, usually with smaller screens/resolutions (9"-11") and less powerful hardware. Many of them likely will not meet our recommended specifications listed above. While some of them come with a "dual-core processor", often they are very low-power processors, which helps with battery life but can significantly affect performance. While most software and the Liberty website should work fine on a netbook, it may not be an optimal experience for you. Some course-specific software, especially larger programs like Adobe Photoshop, may have minimum hardware requirements, sometimes requiring a minimum screen resolution or amount of RAM before they can be installed. Most common/standard laptops today will meet or exceed our recommendations, and will be significantly more powerful than a netbook, often for only a slightly higher price.

Original Microsoft Surface (non-Pro) and other Windows RT Devices with ARM CPU

Devices with Windows RT, such as the original Microsoft Surface, do not support installing any programs outside of the Windows 8 "App Store". This is a limitation of the "RT" version of Windows 8. Because of this, Silverlight and other software needed for courses cannot be installed. Therefore, Windows RT devices are not recommended as a primary machine for accessing coursework.

Chromebooks

Chromebooks run the Chrome OS, which is a very limited Operating System that consists mostly of the Chrome browser and a few settings. Silverlight, Java, and desktop programs such as Microsoft Office, iTunes, and other software cannot be installed on Chromebooks. Chromebooks are not recommended as a primary machine for accessing coursework.

PC Software Recommendations

Firefox- A great internet browser for use with Blackboard. For the best experience with discussion boards and quizzes/tests, this browser should be used instead of Internet Explorer, Safari, or Chrome.

Java - Making sure your java is up-to-date will give you the best experience in tests and quizzes.

Microsoft Office 365 - For all current students, Office 365 is available. In order to install Office 365, please consult the linked guide. Microsoft Office is required for most courses at Liberty University. OpenOffice and LibreOffice are not fully compatible with Blackboard and are not supported by the IT HelpDesk. Microsoft Office Starter might not contain all of the programs and options needed for your classes.

Adobe Reader - For opening .PDF files in your courses.

iTunes - Applicable course videos can be downloaded from iTunes and saved on your computer. This is the best way to watch course videos and presentations with a slower connection. Not ALL classes have videos available in iTunes.

There are several applications needed for watching presentations in Blackboard:

Microsoft Silverlight
Adobe Flash
Apple QuickTime is not required but may be used by videos on external links.

We strongly recommend against users purchasing their own antivirus software. Microsoft provides free antivirus software, called Windows Defender, to all computers running Windows 7 and above. For instructions on turning on Windows Defender, click here.

The IT HelpDesk cannot support any other antivirus software other than Windows Defender; if you experience problems on our network you will be asked to remove it.

Mac Software Recommendations

Firefox - A great internet browser for use with Blackboard. For the best experience with discussion boards and quizzes/tests, this browser should be used instead of Safari.

Microsoft Office 365 - For all current students, Office 365 is available. In order to install Office 365, please consult the linked guide. Microsoft Office is required for most courses at Liberty University. Apple Pages, OpenOffice and LibreOffice are not fully compatible with Blackboard and are not supported by the IT HelpDesk. Microsoft Office Starter might not contain all of the programs and options needed for your classes.

Adobe Reader - For opening .PDF files in your courses.

These are the recommended applications for watching videos in Blackboard