Computer Requirements

Before you can register for an online course at USF you must meet or exceed the following hardware and software requirements. We strongly recommend that you have access to your computer at home. Our research indicates that students who decide to take an on-line course without having home access have a far greater chance of dropping the course or performing below grade expectations. Remember, the greatest advantage of an on-line course is the ability to enter the class at a time that is convenient for the student. Having to drive 15 minutes to use a computer is not time convenient.

Hardware Requirements

This section details the both the minimum and recommended hardware that you must have in order to run WebCT, which is our online course program. These requirements are based not only on what WebCT requires but what you should have to maximize your classroom efficiency.

Special Notes and Limitations

1. AOL's browser does not work properly with WebCT. You can still use AOL as your Internet Access connection but you must use Netscape or Internet Explorer as your browser.
   
   See the browser tune-up for a list of Internet browsers that are supported for use with USF online courses.
   
   
2. Most online courses require students to submit and receive word processing documents. Microsoft Office Professional – which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access – is strongly recommended and is required for certain courses. You can purchase Microsoft Office Professional at a discounted price at the USF Bookstore.
   
   NOTE: Programs such as Microsoft Works are incapable of saving documents in Word 6.0 format. If you do not have Microsoft Word, please save your documents as Rich Text Format (.rtf).
   
   
3. Company Firewalls
   Using your computer from work may result in problems reaching your USF Online course. Many companies today are running firewall software or using hardware that could restrict your ability to access material over the Internet. If your company is running a firewall system and you have problems accessing your USF online course, you should consult with your company's technology department to determine whether they are willing to make adjustments to their firewall system for you. USF cannot do this since it is your company’s firewall that is blocking your access to the University.  Please note that some companies have policies that prohibit the personal use of the Internet.

   If your technology department is willing to make changes to their firewall for you, please contact the Center for Instructional Delivery at 866-337-1497 for the specific information that they will need to allow you access.