CCSNH logoSoftware Requirements for Online Courses

If you have the Microsoft VISTA operating system on your computer, use the Firefox browser in order to be able to view text boxes in Blackboard.

If using Firefox, javascript and cookies must be enabled in order to login to Blackboard.

Web Browser Requirements

  PC Users, Blackboard recommends

· Windows Vista - Mozilla FireFox 2.0 (free download at http://www.mozilla.com)

· Windows XP - Mozilla FireFox or Internet Explorer 6.1

· Windows 2000 - Mozilla FireFox or Internet Explorer 6.1

  Macintosh Users, Blackboard recommends

· Mac OS 9.2 - Netscape Navigator 7.0 or Internet Explorer 5.1

· Mac OS X.1 - Netscape Navigator 7.0 or Internet Explorer 5.1 or 5.2

· Mac OS X.2 - Netscape Navigator 7.0 or Internet Explorer 5.2

 

 Note: Javascript and cookies must be enabled in order to log into Blackboard.


AOL Users

AOL is currently not recommended for use with Blackboard. You will need to use either Mozilla FireFox or Internet Explorer when accessing your online courses. Most computers have a pre-installed version of an external browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape. Or download now using the links above.


Pop-up Blockers

Many newer browsers include pop-up blockers that may block quizzes, tests or assignments from appearing Blackboard. If you experience any difficulties accessing classroom materials, turn off any pop-up blockers that you may be running.


Virus Protection

Computer viruses can damage to your computer and your computer files. If you send a file with a virus, the recipient’s computer may become "infected" as well. Anti-virus software is available to help protect your computer. You can find both a free version and a full commercial version by visiting http://www.mcafee.com

Other good options for virus protection include:

http://www.symantec.com
http://www.sophos.com

A small investment of your time and money will prevent major hardware and/or software problems on your computer.

Most new computers include a free trial version of anti-virus software. If so, be sure to upgrade when your free trial expires to be sure your computer continues to be protected. Set your virus definitions to be automatically updated daily.

Software

Microsoft Office, Academic version including Word, Excel and Powerpoint is recommended. The cost is about $130. The academic version is much less expensive.

Free Software Tools

Some classes may require you to download:

Acrobat Reader - http://www.adobe-free-download.com/

RealPlayer (look for free version)

Flash Player

QuickTime Player

PowerPoint Viewer

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