You Will Need

Either a laptop or desktop computer (PC or Mac). Generally, a computer that is less than 3 or 4 years old should be fine. NOTE: Tablets and Smartphones can be convenient for reading course materials and email, but will not be sufficient for doing your course work.
An internet connection that is fast enough to stream video (for example, watch YouTube videos).
Microsoft Office or comparable software such as Google Apps (Docs and Sheets and Slides, all part of the G Suite provided to you with your PAU gmail account) or Open Office to complete your assignments. NOTE: Microsoft Office is available for download from OneLogin.
Frequent and extended access to a computer. If you don’t have an adequate computer available for your use at home, then you can use one at work or at a public library or at the PAU library on the Arastradero Campus.

You Might Need

A webcam for Respondus Monitor or Zoom.
Smartphone for polling or to connect through Zoom.
A microphone (either a headset or one built into the computer) or a telephone or Smartphone to connect through Zoom.
A digital camera (the one on a Smartphone is fine).

NOTE:

At the beginning of each course, your professor will let you know if you need any of these things.
Your instructor may require you to install a specific software program for your course. Please check with your instructor directly for these requirements.

Anti-Virus Software

Anti-virus software protects your computer against viruses by scanning for malicious programs and then neutralizing or eliminating them. New viruses are coming out every day, so it is very important to keep your anti-virus software updated, and scan frequently in order for your computer to stay healthy and run properly!

Email the PAU Support Help Desk at support@paloaltou.edu for recommendations regarding free anti-virus software.

It is strongly recommended that ONLY ONE anti-virus program be used on your computer. If more than one is used, there is a strong possibility they will conflict with each other and cause problems on your computer.

Browsers

Canvas works best when accessed using Chrome or Firefox. Quizzes do not work well in Internet Explorer. Both browsers are a free download.

View the latest browser requirements

The latest versions of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are all good choices for working in Canvas.

Google Chrome usually works the very best with Canvas.

Download Google Chrome
Download Mozilla Firefox
Download Safari

Which web browser am I using now?

Go to Support Details and check the "Web Browser" box to see which one you are using now.

Using Smartphones and Tablets with Canvas

Canvas is fully functional on many types of Smartphones and tablets. Compatible devices include platforms such as iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch and Android phones and tablets.

However, it is recommended that you do not solely rely on one of these devices to complete your online course work. Access to a computer is still needed for many online activities.

Visit the Mobile section of the Canvas Guides website for more information.

smartphones and tablets

Canvas Apps for Mobile Devices

You can access Canvas on your phone or a table using a browser app, such as Safari or Chrome. You can also install the free Canvas app on your mobile device. However, not all Canvas features may be available on the app.

Canvas app icon iOS iPhone and iPad app Android App