Recommended Technology for Online Learning

The Information Technology department has put together a short list of recommended computing (hardware and software) resources to provide the best possible experience while learning online.

Technology Checklist

☑  Bandwidth and Internet Requirements

• Minimum download speed of 25 Mbps
• Minimum upload speed of 5 Mbps
• For households sharing a network, 100+ Mbps is ideal

You can test your current speed using Google Speed Test.

☑  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.

• Operating System: Windows 11 (64-bit) or macOS (14 Sonoma / 15 Sequoia or newer).
  
  Please note that Windows 10 is no longer supported by Microsoft and will not be supported by IT. You will need to update your device to Window 11 to be able to connect and receive support from the Information Technology department. 
   
• Processor (CPU): Intel Core i5 / i7 (12th Gen or newer), AMD Ryzen 5 / 7 (5000 series or newer), or Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, or M4 chip).
• Memory (RAM): 16 GB is highly recommended for smooth multitasking. 8 GB is the bare minimum, but may sluggish.
• Storage: 256 GB or 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD). Avoid older mechanical hard drives (HDDs) as they severely slow down system performance.

☑  Webcam

• A built-in or external HD webcam (1080p preferred) for live lectures and online proctored exams.

☑  Microphone

• A microphone/headset for live lectures and online proctored exams.

☑  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.

☑  Supported 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.

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 on your smartphone or device to protect your account and securely log into your student accounts and portals.

Recommended Softwares

Microsoft 365 Education

Laurentian students also have access to Microsoft 365, allowing you to download desktop versions of Word, Excel, 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