This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Technology Requirements & Tips
Hardware and Software Requirements
Online students must have home access to a computer with the following minimum requirements:
Hardware:
- A PC running a Microsoft Windows Operating System or Mac OS with the operating system’s minimum requirements for processor, memory, and hard drive (See the Microsoft or Apple website for minimum requirements)
- At least 10.0 GB of free hard-drive space (additional space may be needed for multimedia files)
- 1024 x 768 monitor with a 16-bit or greater video card (24-bit preferred)
- DVD-ROM drive or CD-ROM drive
- Sound card with speakers, webcam and microphone (for selected courses)
Software:
- Microsoft Office 365 (available free to VGCC students)
- The latest version of Firefox (free download available here)
- Adobe® Reader® (free download available here)
- Java Browser Plugin (free download available here)
VGCC offers Microsoft Office 365 free through your student email account. Microsoft has a page of instructions to explain how students can download the office 365 software on their computers for use.
Additional Technology Requirements for Courses
Along with the Technology Requirements listed in the Catalog, all students should review and be aware of any additional software and hardware requirements for their classes prior to enrollment.
Technology Tips for Virtual Sessions
- When using video/audio tools for proctored exams, presentations, and web-conferencing with classes, it might be best to plug-in directly to your internet with an ethernet connection.
- If using wi-fi, ask others to log-off the wi-fi prior to and during your video session.
- Close all tabs in your browser and quit other programs running on the computer, prior to your session.
- Move closer to your router.
- Use Chrome or Firefox Browsers to access Moodle and video sessions.
- If you’re on a mobile device, try switching to a laptop or computer.
- Try restarting your computer and router a few hours prior to your session.
- Clear your browser cache and cookies.
- Small devices, such as microwaves, power cables, baby monitors, and even a Fitbit can cause wi-fi interference.
Quick Links