System Requirements

Modified on Tue, May 6 at 2:26 PM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Hardware Requirements
Program Specific Technology Requirements
Browser Support
Internet Connection and Bandwidth
Players and Plugins
Mobile Devices
Software
Additional Tools
Accessibility in Blackboard (myLesley)

Hardware Requirements

For the best performance, we recommend that your computer meet the following system requirements:

Operating System: Windows 10+, Macintosh OS 10.15+ (if a later version of Mac OS is compatible with your system please install the latest MacOS updates)
Processor: Dual-core 2Ghz or higher (Intel i3/i5/i7 or AMD equivalent)
RAM: 8 GB or more
Hard Drive Space: 10 GB or greater

Not sure how to check your system settings? Refer to the following support articles:

In some instances you will need access to a smartphone or digital camera in order to capture images or video.

Please note that not all tools used in your course are compatible across all browsers and devices. This is especially true if you are using a mobile device. For the best experience, we recommend a desktop or laptop computer.

Program Specific Technology Requirements

Please note that some schools or programs may have specific hardware and software requirements. Refer to the Laptop Program support article for more information regarding program-specific laptop requirements and to purchase a compatible device. Reach out to your program with any questions or concerns.

Browser Support

Supported Browsers

Chrome and Firefox tend to be the most compatible with all of the Lesley supported tools. As a best practice, make sure your browsers are always up-to-date.

Blackboard Browser Checker

Run the Blackboard Browser Checker to make sure that your system is compatible with myLesley/Blackboard. The Browser Checker will confirm that your operating system, browser, cookies, and pop-up blocker are compatible.

Third Party Cookies

Recent updates to several browsers have included changes to how the browser handles third-party cookies. If you have trouble accessing content, edit your browser’s settings to allow sites to save and read cookie data.

Internet Connection and Bandwidth

For the best experience, use a strong, reliable internet connection. If you will be participaing in online meetings, please refer to the following resources:

Players and Plugins

In addition to a compatible browser, you will also need the updated versions of the following players and plugins:

Adobe Reader

Adobe Reader will allow you to download and read PDFs. Click here to download Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Mobile Devices

Some coursework may be completed on a mobile device. There are several mobile apps available which may have varying requirements and compatibility. Refer to the Lesley “On The Go” With Mobile Solutions support article for the detailed list of supported apps, including myLesley/Blackboard, VoiceThread, Microsoft Office 365 tools, and more.

Please note that not all tools used in your course are compatible across all browsers and devices. This is especially true if you are using a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. For the best experience, we recommend using a desktop or laptop computer.

Software

Antivirus Software

Be sure to install an antivirus tool on your computer, such as MacAfee, Symantec/Norton, etc. This will help keep your computer safe from viruses and other threats.

Microsoft Office

Lesley students, faculty, and staff may be eligible to download and install the latest version of Microsoft Office. For more information and download instructions, refer to the Download Microsoft Office 365 support article.

Additional Software

Certain courses or programs may require additional content-specific software. Students will be given information on how to access or purchase them prior to the start of each course.

Additional Tools

Microphone

You may need a microphone or headset to record audio or participate in online meetings.

Camera/Webcam

You may need a camera or webcam to record video or participate in online meetings. In most instances, you computer's built-in camera or a smartphone will suffice.

File Storage

Don't lose your work! Make sure that your work is backed up in case something happens to your computer. You may back up your work to a physical drive (flash drive or external hard drive) or an online tool such as OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.

Accessibility in Blackboard (myLesley)

Accessibility Overview

Both Blackboard Ultra and Blackboard Original courses are designed to be accessible to all users. Additional information regarding Blackboard accessibility may be found here:

Using Screen Readers in Blackboard

For the best experience with screen readers, Blackboard recommends the following combinations:

Screen Reader	Operating System	Browser
JAWS	Windows	Chrome
NVDA	Windows	Firefox or Chrome
VOICEOVER	MAC OS	Firefox or Chrome

Desktop Screen Readers Survival Guide: Basic Keyboard Shortcuts: This guide features commands for navigating web pages with your preferred screen reader.
Using Blackboard Ultra with JAWS Tutorial Videos: These videos from Freedom Scientific guide users through navigating Blackboard Ultra with JAWS.
Blackboard Original Screen Reader Tutorial (download): This tutorial provides users with information for using screen readers in Blackboard Original courses.

Alternative Document Formats

Ally is a tool within Blackboard, which creates alternative files that are easier to for all students to use. Ally creates multiple alternative formats including readable text for screen readers, pictures with captions, and easy-to-navigate content. You can download these alternative formats anywhere that files are used.