Hardware and Software Requirements

Requirements

To take a Web-based class, students are expected to provide their own:

• Software
• Computer hardware system with an Internet service provider
• D2L accessible system

Minnesota State College Southeast strongly recommends that your computer exceed all minimum requirements to optimize your educational experience. It is further expected that equipment is in working order throughout the term.

Software Requirements

Software is also required for each online course, and students are expected to be able to use the software on a basic level.

• Word processing
• Spreadsheet
• Microsoft Office 2010 Enterprise Edition, or better (for ADMS, COMC & COMP courses):
  • Southeast students receive Microsoft Office 365 free. You will receive an email with instructions in your student email before your first semester starts.
  • Most of the software can also be accessed via Remote Desktop, but a fast Internet Connection is required (LAN, T1, etc.). Please check with the instructor.
• Some courses require specific software. See your instructor for specific requirements.
• The college's computers do not have the software needed for all online courses. The student is expected to have a PC, an Internet connection, and the required software installed on their computers.
• Special savings on other software: View and/or purchase software

Hardware Requirements

Please note that the following specifications are minimum requirements. They should not be used as a guideline when purchasing a new computer. (Newly purchased computers and monitors should well exceed the requirements below.)

• Computer:
  • Windows 7, Windows 8.1, or later
  • 2.5 GHz or faster processor
  • 4 or more gigabytes (GB) of RAM
  • Sound card and speakers
  • DVD drive
• Internet:
• DSL or Cable connection through an Internet Service provider (ISP)
  a. Account plans offering a minimum of 4 Mb download and 1.5 Mb upload speed is recommended
• AOL may require special set up with AOL tech support
• Web browser & several, free Web browser plug-ins  

D2L Requirements

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