Technical Requirements

Review the technical requirements below to ensure your device and setup are ready for a smooth learning experience with Saylor University's graduate programs.

Internet Connection

  • Minimum: Download speed of 3 Mbps and upload speed of 1 Mbps to prevent disconnections during proctored exams or video sessions.
  • Recommended: Download speed of 5 Mbps and upload speed of 2 Mbps for smooth video streaming and live sessions.

Supported Operating Systems

Desktop / Laptop

  • Windows: 10 or higher
  • macOS: 10.13 (High Sierra) or higher
  • Linux: Ubuntu 18.04 or higher (note: SmarterProctoring may not support Linux)

Mobile / Tablet

  • Android: 8.0 (Oreo) or higher
  • iOS / iPadOS: 12.0 or higher

Hardware Requirements

Desktop / Laptop

  • Processor: 1 GHz or faster (dual-core recommended)
  • Memory (RAM): Minimum 4 GB; 8 GB recommended
  • Screen Resolution: Minimum 1024 x 768 pixels
  • Peripherals: Keyboard, mouse or touchpad, speakers or headphones

Mobile / Tablet

  • Device Capability: Must run the supported OS smoothly
  • Storage: Sufficient space for app installations and downloads
  • Peripherals: Earphones or headphones for audio content

Software Requirements

  • Browser: Latest version of a supported browser (see below)
  • Additional Software: PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader), office suite (e.g., Microsoft Office, LibreOffice)
  • Enabled Features: JavaScript and cookies must be enabled in the browser

Browser Requirements

Supported Browsers

  • Google Chrome: Latest version (Chrome 116+)
  • Mozilla Firefox: Latest version (SmarterProctoring not supported)
  • Safari: Latest version for macOS and iOS (SmarterProctoring not supported)
  • Microsoft Edge: Latest version, Chromium-based (SmarterProctoring supported)
  • Brave: Latest version (SmarterProctoring supported)

Note: Internet Explorer is not supported. Always use the most recent version of your browser for security and compatibility.

Browser Settings

  • Pop-ups: Allow pop-ups for Moodle and associated content
  • Cache: Clear browser cache regularly
  • Extensions / Add-ons: Disable any that might interfere with Moodle

Mobile Access

Moodle Mobile App

  • Availability: Download from Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS)
  • Compatibility: Requires Android 8.0+ / iOS 12.0+
  • Features: Access course content, receive notifications, participate in activities

Mobile Browser Access

  • Supported Browsers: Mobile versions of Chrome and Safari
  • Limitations: Some complex activities may be limited compared to desktop access

Requirements for Watching Embedded Videos

Technical Requirements

  • Supported Formats: MP4, WebM, OGG
  • Browser Compatibility: Modern browsers support HTML5 video without plugins
  • Bandwidth: Minimum 5 Mbps recommended for HD videos
  • Audio Equipment: Speakers or headphones

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Update Browser: Ensure you're using the latest browser version
  • Check Connections: Use wired connections if Wi-Fi is unstable
  • Disable VPNs / Proxies: These may interfere with streaming

Requirements for H5P Content

Technical Requirements

  • Browser Compatibility: Latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
  • JavaScript: Must be enabled
  • Device Compatibility: Responsive design works on desktops, tablets, and mobiles

Recommendations

  • Interaction: Engage with interactive elements for the best learning experience
  • Performance: Close unnecessary applications to improve performance

Taking Exams Using SmarterProctoring

Browser Requirements

  • Supported Browsers: Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based)
  • LockDown Browser Extension: May be required for secure proctored exams

Operating System Requirements

  • Windows: 10 or higher
  • macOS: 10.13 (High Sierra) or higher
  • Note: Linux and mobile operating systems are not supported

Hardware Requirements

  • Processor: Dual-core 2.0 GHz or higher
  • Memory (RAM): Minimum 4 GB; 8 GB recommended
  • Webcam: Internal or external, minimum 720p resolution
  • Microphone: Built-in or external
  • Display: Minimum 1024 x 768 pixels

Internet Connection

  • Speed: Minimum upload 1 Mbps and download 3 Mbps
  • Stability: Wired connection recommended to prevent interruptions

Additional Requirements

  • Administrative Rights: May be necessary to install software or extensions
  • Environment: Quiet, private space with adequate lighting
  • Identification: Valid photo ID required for verification
  • Prohibited Items: No external devices or materials unless permitted

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Run System Check: Use SmarterProctoring's system check tool before the exam
  • Update Software: Ensure your OS and browser are up to date
  • Close Applications: Exit all non-essential programs to free up resources

Accessibility and Accommodations

Assistive Technologies

  • Screen Readers: Moodle supports JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack
  • Keyboard Navigation: Full keyboard navigation supported for users who cannot use a mouse

Browser and Device Settings

  • Zoom and Text Size: Adjust zoom levels and text size for comfortable viewing
  • Contrast and Colors: Modify browser or device settings, or use extensions to enhance visibility
  • Other Accessibility Features: Explore browser and device accessibility options for further customization