Understanding System Requirements: Canvas

Description

To access classes and complete coursework using the core features of Canvas, your system must meet these minimums.  However, additional hardware specifications, software, or browser plug-ins may be required to complete course work as assigned by some instructors or programs.  It is the student's responsibility to check with instructors/programs for special technology requirements.   

Please note that you must have Administrator access to your computer to install programs and use Canvas. Public or loaned (work or business) computers often do not allow file downloads or plugin installations and thus may not work with Canvas.  

Environment

Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS 

Hardware Requirements 

Your device must be able to run the latest version of the supported browsers.  Each browser has a different set of requirements, check the website of your browser of choice to ensure that you meet their requirements.  

• RAM: 1 GB or higher  

• Internet connection: Speed of at least 512 kbps  

• Webcam, microphone, and speakers  

Recommended Browsers and Software 

Canvas supports the current and previous major releases of the following browsers: 

• Chrome  

• Firefox (Extended-Release versions are not supported)  

• Edge  

• Safari (Mac only)  

You can find the list of supported versions, as well as a browser checker available in this Canvas Support Guide. 

Browser Settings  

• Enable cookies 

• Enable third-party cookies  

• Enable Javascript  

• Disable pop-up blocker  

• You may leave the browser's pop-up blocker enabled if you add an exception for "https://ohio.instructure.com"  

• Please note that with this approach, you may find it necessary to create additional exceptions for other third-party websites that may be required for coursework  

Additional Software

• Microsoft 365 is required for most assignments in Canvas. Microsoft 365 ProPlus is available free to current students.  

Get help from Canvas

• Live chat with Canvas support (Faculty) 
• Get 24-hours/7-days a week Canvas support  
  • Dial the Canvas Support Hotline number located under "Get Help" in the Canvas Global Navigation Menu 
  • Contact OIT at 740-593-1222 for questions related to logging in, test courses/manually created courses, or third-party tools (Panopto, VoiceThread, Inclusive Access, etc.) 

Get Help from OIT

• Use the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) ticket form to submit a help ticket 
• Visit the Technology Resources and Training page for available training 

Additional resources

• What are the Browser and Computer Requirements for Instructure Products?
• Canvas Basics Guide  
• Canvas Instructor Guide  
• Canvas Video Guide 
• Mobile Guides 
• Canvas Course Accessibility Checklist
• Canvas LMS Implementation updates
• Canvas Experts Corner Blog