Canvas Technical Requirements

Canvas runs on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, or any other device* with a modern web browser.

Browsers

Supported desktop browsers include the last two versions of:

While Canvas supports the latest 2 versions of Internet Explorer, you are highly encouraged to use Chrome, Safari, or Firefox for the best user experience. As of May 24th, 2014, Canvas no longer supports any version of Internet Explorer older than IE10.

Plugins

Canvas requires the following browser components:

Flash
is required for media recording, streaming, viewing, and uploading.
The Java plug-in
is required for several features in Canvas.
Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view documents in your browser.

Computer Hardware Requirements

You are required to have use of a computer system with the following specifications and components**:

Use a computer 5 years old or newer when possible
2+ GHz processor
1GB+ RAM
Minimum of 512kbps Internet connection
Web camera

Mobile Devices

While Canvas is supported on Android and iOS mobile devices, it is optimized for desktop displays. Since Canvas uses flash, certain features may not be available to you on your mobile device. Using your desktop to submit assignments, discussion posts, and take quizzes is highly recommended.

Will Canvas Work On My Mobile Device?

*Canvas is optimized for desktop displays.
**Your instructor may require additional hardware or software for your course.

Need Teaching and Learning assistance for online or hybrid courses?

Contact the Center for Innovative Learning.

This page was last modified on March 19, 2018