Technology requirements

What you need to know to keep your computer operating system, software applications, and web browsers up to date, as well as how to connect to Kent State University's online resources for the LMS and University Libraries.

The Kent State Online Technology Help Center can help you with problems with the LMS, logging in to your online course, and hardware and software issues. Contact TechHelp by submitting a Support Ticket or getting help via a LiveChat with support staff. You can also call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 330-672-HELP.

Hardware requirements

A laptop or desktop with the following minimum specifications is required:

• A minimum of a 2GHz processor
• Recommend 8GB of RAM (minimum of 4GB of RAM)

Online courses and programs requiring students to use processor-intensive software applications may require special computer hardware. Course requirements may depend on the materials and content in that specific course, as if the assessments use online proctoring. You may be required to have a webcam. If you think your course might have such requirements, please get in touch with the instructor. The Kent State University Bookstore often offers student discounts on purchases of new computer hardware.

Internet access

A DSL, cable connection, or greater is recommended. Online classes at Kent State University employ a variety of multimedia materials that will be viewed and downloaded. You must have a connection that allows for the streaming and downloading of potentially large-size files in a timely manner. Dial-up is not sufficient.

Software requirements

Kent State University provides technical support for a limited number of operating systems and software applications. The following required computer operating systems and software applications are supported by the KSU Helpdesk:

1. An actively supported and fully updated version of a current OS, such as Windows 11 or macOS 12 or later. 
2. Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
3. Antivirus for Windows OS, enable Windows Defender
4. Antivirus for Mac OS, Sophos
5. Adobe Acrobat Reader

A list of available free and/or discounted software downloads for students is available from Information Technology.  Software like Windows 10 can be purchased for a discount at the Kent State University Microsoft site.

Please review the Kent State Technology Guidebook for a more detailed list of technology recommendations and links to helpful information for setting up your computer for coursework.

Update your computer operating system

Keeping your operating system up to date is important for security features and bug fixes

• For Windows 10
  • Locate the Start button in the taskbar. Click on Settings in the left pane, then click Update and Security. Click check for updates.
• For Mac OS X Users:
  • Depending on OS version:
    • Locate the Apple icon in the top left corner of the desktop menu bar. Click on the Apple, select “App Store...". Then click on the Update tab (it will check for updates).
    • Locate updates through System Preferences -> Software Updates

Update your web browser

To ensure maximum compatibility with the features and functions of the learning management system, you MUST update your web browser to the latest updated version of ONE of the following:

• Mozilla Firefox
• Google Chrome
• Safari

Once you have downloaded and installed your choice of web browser, make sure to change the web browser's preference setting to download updates automatically.  Follow the Canvas Browser requirements for information on using Canvas.

Install web browser plug-ins

Not required, but if necessary, download and install the following (for both PC and Apple Mac platforms):

• Required Java - The latest Java version contains important enhancements to improve the performance, stability, and security of the Java applications that run on your machine. Installing this free update will ensure that your Java applications continue to run safely and efficiently.

Connecting from Off-Campus

KSU Proxy allows Library users to securely connect to databases, electronic journals, e-books, and streaming media services without installing complicated third-party software. When you attempt to access library content from off campus, you’re prompted to enter your FlashLine username and password, after which you’re connected. It’s that easy.

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) service is also available, allowing you to create a secure connection via the internet between your computer and the Kent State University network. This service can be used for some university services, but the Proxy is required for library resources.

Privacy Policies

Understanding what information is being collected about you in the systems you interact with is important. Online courses at Kent State University are conducted on the LMS, Canvas. For any questions on what information the LMS collects, please refer to the Canvas privacy policy.

Google products like YouTube are often used in online courses. For any questions about what information Google collects and how it is used, please refer to the Google privacy policy and the YouTube privacy policy.

Online Proctored Testing

Some courses have proctored testing for exams. Kent State University uses Proctorio for online proctored testing. If your course uses Proctorio, you will need the Proctorio Chrome browser extension. Visit the student proctored testing page for more information on Proctorio, frequently asked questions, and proctored testing support. 

Microsoft Teams

Your course may use Microsoft Teams for synchronous sessions, discussions, group work, or office hours. If you have not already, download the Teams app. If unfamiliar with the program, refer to the Teams for Students information page.