If your computer does not meet the minimum system requirements, Blackboard and other integrated software may not function properly. Prior to using Blackboard on your computer, compare your current system configuration with the minimum recommended system requirements below. Please note that the Linux operating system is not compatible with Respondus Lockdown Browser.
Processor
1 GHz or more
Ram
4 GB or more
Hard Drive
40 GB or more
Hard Drive Space Available
20 GB
Internet Connection
Broadband high-speed Internet access
5 Mbps download speed
Run a speed test to make sure your download speed meets this requirement.
Adapter for Ethernet connection (LAN), or a wireless adapter (Wi-Fi)
Other
Sound card and speakers
Blackboard strives to make all its products as accessible as possible. The two most
recent versions of JAWS are used during accessibility testing.
The following software or hardware may be required for specific courses that you are taking, such as courses that require Respondus Lockdown Browser for online tests or participation in meetings via a web conferencing platform. Please note that the Linux operating system is not compatible with Respondus Lockdown Browser.
Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Windows Media Player (Windows Only), QuickTime (Mac only)
Webcam (built-in or standalone)
Microphone (built-in, standalone, or headset)
Run the Blackboard browser checker tool to make sure that your browser has the necessary specifications for using Blackboard.
Your browser must be configured properly as follows:
Cookies must be enabled.
Pop-up windows must be enabled.
At a minimum, you will need Adobe Reader and JRE 7 or 8 - Java Runtime Environment plug-in. (You may need additional plug-ins if the course you are taking includes multimedia elements.)
To download and install the current versions of Adobe Reader, Adobe Flash Player, and the Java plug-in.
Get the Java plug-in and also be sure to remove any older versions of the Java plug-in.
Operating System Versions
Desktop Browser Versions*
*Blackboard is supported on iOS 12+ for mobile browsers.
For the best performance, please use a certified browser and operating system when using Blackboard and Blackboard Collaborate Ultra.