Learning Online

The following guidelines are minimum computer specifications required for general purpose computing and participating in online instruction. Students should also review their academic program as specific majors may require greater specifications to adequately run required software. Students receive Microsoft Office at no cost from UIW and do not need to purchase their own copy.

Operating system: WINDOWS 10 or Mac OS (Mojave or later)

Processor: Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3

RAM: 8 Gigabytes of RAM

Storage: 128 Gigabytes SOLID STATE hard drive

Camera: Built-in or add on webcamera (480p or higher resolution) with microphone

We recommend a minimum bandwidth of 1.5 Mbps for both upload and download speed. Most providers, even satellite, should offer basic packages that exceed this amount.

Many of us are stressing our home networks like never before. If you find yourself having connectivity challenges, consider some of the following tips:

1. If connected via WiFi carefully review the placement of your wireless router and laptop
   1. The farther away you are the more chance for signal disruption and interference
   2. Ensure your wireless router is in the open and not in a cabinet to allow for best signal propagation
2. If possible select the 5Ghz WiFi network instead of the 2.4Ghz WiFi network
   1. 5Ghz is more capable and has less interference. Nearly all modern routers provide this capability
   2. Please refer to the manual or service provider information for details on specifics
3. If enabled consider shutting off extra WiFi networks such as "guest" or "open"
   1. Sometimes these networks are added or turned on by default
4. Depending on the age of your wireless router, consider upgrading your hardware
   1. You should look for "802.11ac" capable wireless routers. This is the latest signaling technology
   2. New routers are more powerful, have better range, and offer other benefits
5. If the placement of your router and computer allows consider a wired connection
   1. Wired connections are not susceptible to signal loss or interference resulting in the best connection
6. Check for competing for internet consumption
   1. Streaming video services such as Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and others can consume large amounts of bandwidth
   2. Online gaming and gaming consoles should be considered. They may be consuming bandwidth if on but not used.
7. Consider ad-blocker extensions for your internet browser
   1. Web-based Ads, pop up videos, and other nuisances can unnecessarily consume bandwidth
   2. Each browser can add these extensions at no cost

A headset for a computer and your smartphone may improve your experience if you spend a long duration on either.