Recommended Technology for Online Learning
The Information Technology department has established a list of minimum hardware and software requirements to ensure students have the necessary computing resources to successfully participate in online learning.
Technology Checklist
☑ Bandwidth and Internet Requirements
| Internet Speed | High-speed broadband internet with a minimum download speed of 5 Mbps. For households sharing a network, 100+ Mbps is ideal. You can test your current speed using Google Speed Test. |
| Wired Connection | Ethernet to the home router is recommended for a more reliable internet connection. |
Note: Connecting to Wi-Fi via another device's mobile hotspot, USB tethering, or Bluetooth tethering may work if broadband internet is not available, so long as the device has a strong signal and fulfills the requirements above, but it does not offer a reliable connection long-term. Ethernet is strongly recommended.
☑ Minimum Computing Requirements
Chromebooks, iPads, and Android tablets/handheld devices are not recommended as primary devices because they cannot run full desktop applications or specialized automated exam proctoring software. A desktop computer or laptop should be your primary device for online learning.
| Device | Windows-based PC | macOS-based PC |
| Operating System | Windows 11 (64-bit) Note: Windows 10 is no longer supported by Microsoft and will not be supported by IT. You will need to update your device to Windows 11 to connect and receive technical support from the IT department. | macOS 15 (Sequoia) or newer |
| Processor (CPU) | Intel Core i5 / i7 (13th gen or newer) or AMD Ryzen 5 | Apple M2 chip |
| Screen Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 2560 x 1600 |
| Memory (RAM) | 16 GB | |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD. Avoid older mechanical hard drives (HDD) as they can hinder system performance. | |
| Connectivity | Ethernet or WiFi. USB-A and C ports are needed for additional accessories (headphones, microphone, etc.). | |
| Internet Browser | Always use the latest version of Google Chrome (recommended) or other web browsers like Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge or Apple Safari. Keep an alternative browser installed as a backup troubleshooting step if a webpage fails to load. | |
☑ Recommended Accessories
| Webcam | A built-in or external HD webcam (1080p preferred) for live lectures and online proctored exams. |
| Microphone | A microphone or headset for live lectures and online proctored exams. |
| Scanner or Camera | A scanner or camera (a smartphone camera, for example) may be needed to take photos of work for submission if it was completed physically rather than online. |
| Anti-Virus Software | Ensure your computer has active anti-virus software running (such as the built-in Windows Defender or macOS security settings) and keep your operating system updated with the latest security patches. |
Required Accounts
As a Laurentian student, you are automatically provided with access to the essential digital platforms, administrative tools, and productivity suites needed for both your coursework and managing your student account.
Visit my.laurentian.ca/start to complete the onboarding survey and activate your Laurentian student account. You will need your student number at this stage. Refer to your admissions letter for your student number. Once you’ve completed the survey and your account is activated, you will receive your Laurentian email address. You will need to know both your student number and email during your studies.
Student Portal (myLaurentian)
Your central hub for administrative student services, official announcements, campus resources, and university support tabs (including IT Services). This is where you will access all other student accounts.
Self-Service
The portal used to manage your program requirements, register for courses, view your transcript, check financial accounts, and pay tuition fees.
D2L Brightspace
Laurentian’s official Learning Management System. This is where you will access your course outlines, course content, complete assignments, participate in discussion boards, track your grades, and take exams.
Laurentian Student Email (Google Workspace)
All registered students are provided an official Laurentian email address hosted through Google.
- You must check this email account regularly. All official communications, course updates, instructor messages, and university notices are sent to your Laurentian email.
- Your student account grants full access to Google Workspace apps, including Google Drive, Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for creating assignments and collaborating with classmates.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
You will be required to set up MFA with Microsoft Authenticator on your smartphone or device to protect your account and securely log into your student accounts and portals.
Recommended Software
Microsoft 365 Education
Laurentian students also have access to Microsoft 365, allowing you to download desktop versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for free using your student credentials.
To sign up for Microsoft 365 Education, please use the following link: Office 365 Education
Zoom
Used for live, synchronous lectures, study groups, and virtual office hours. We recommend downloading the dedicated Zoom desktop application rather than using the web version.
To sign up for Zoom using your student/teaching account, please use the following link: Zoom Sign up
Help and Support
IT Services (Service Desk)
Help with accounts, access, troubleshooting, and software support.