Canvas Technology Specifications

There are minimum technology specifications that must be met in order to operate the Canvas LMS and be a successful remote/online student. Access Canvas’s full list of technology requirements.

*Students must have access to a full desktop/laptop computer operating system.*

Minimum Specifications

Technology

Accessing online courses from a tablet or other mobile device is not sufficient to perform certain Canvas functions. LC State has established the following technology recommendations for students taking online courses.

  • Internet Connection
  • Consistent, reliable access to a high-speed internet connection is required to successfully participate in remote and online instruction.
  • Hardware
    • Webcam with Microphone is strongly recommended
    • Speakers/headphones/earbuds for listening to audio or video
  • Operating System Minimum Requirements
    • Windows
      • Windows 10
      • 800-MHz or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
      • 2 GB of RAM
    • Mac (Apple)
      • Mac OS X 10.8
      • Intel Core™ Duo 1.83GHz or faster processor
      • 2 GB of RAM

Important Note

CHROMEBOOKS ARE NOT RECOMMENDED AS YOUR MAIN COMPUTER AT LC STATE. Certain Canvas features and some software programs used by campus departments will not run on the Chromebook operating system (ex. Microsoft Office Suite, Respondus LockDown Browser & Monitor).

Additionally, the use of iPads and tablets to complete assignments, quizzes, etc. in Canvas is strongly discouraged, as some third-party programs will malfunction when these technologies is used.

Using the Canvas App for Students

The Canvas Student App allows students access to courses using a mobile device. Students can submit assignments, participate in discussions, view grades, and access course materials. The app also provides access to course calendars, To Do items, and Inbox messages. LC State encourages downloading and use of the Canvas App for Students. HOWEVER, online students MUST still have access to a computer, as certain Canvas features and some software programs used by campus departments won’t run on a mobile device.

Web Browsers

Always use the most current version of your preferred browser. Canvas supports the current and first previous major releases of the following browsers:

  • Google Chrome
  • Mozilla Firefox
  • Safari – Apple
  • Microsoft Edge

PLEASE NOTE: Canvas no longer supports Internet Explorer - You must use one of the browsers above for Canvas to operate properly.