Recommended Hardware & Software
Minimum Computer, Internet Connections and Software Recommendations
Student Skill Level: Use of computer applications, including word processing and email, is required of all Haywood Community College curriculum students.
Connectivity: Students taking online (section IN) and hybrid (section Y) courses must have computer and internet access in order to participate. Haywood Community College’s library offers computer access on a first come, first served basis. Public libraries and most local colleges also provide internet access.
| Microsoft Windows | Apple Macintosh | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum | Recommended | Minimum | Recommended | |
| Operating System | Windows 8.1 | Windows 10 or higher | MacOS 10.12 |
MacOS 10.13 or higher |
| CPU Memory | 4 GB of RAM | 6 GB of RAM or more | 4 GB of RAM | 8 GB of RAM or more |
| Internet Connection | Any high-speed connection (e.g. Cable Broadband, Wi-Fi, or DSL) | |||
| Free Hard Disk Space | 120 GB | 250 GB | 120 GB | 250 GB |
| CD/DVD Drive | May be required for some programs | |||
| Speakers | Speakers or headphones required for online courses | |||
| Software | Minimum | Recommended | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Browser |
Most recent version of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome, Safari, or Internet Explorer (Microsoft Edge not supported) |
Updated version of Mozilla Firefox (may be required for some online courses) |
|
| Productivity Software |
Microsoft Office 365 (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) is required for most classes. Current students may log into the HCC Portal and download a FREE copy of Microsoft Office 365. |
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| Antivirus |
Up-to-date Anti-virus software. |
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| PDF reader installed |
Most recent version of Adobe Reader DC - http://get.adobe.com/reader/. Edge (the default PDF reader in WIndows 10) does not handle pdfs well and some documents may require Adobe Reader for full functionality. Mac users can also use Preview Applications which comes preinstalled. |
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| Multimedia Software | Most recent version of Adobe Flash (available at https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/. | ||
Additional Notes on Software Needs
Students will be required to submit assignments in digital document format, which requires a word processing program. We recommend Microsoft Office 365, available free to Haywood Community College students and employees. Some courses also require the purchase of additional software which will be indicated in your course syllabus. To determine what is required for a particular program of study or individual course prior to the start of the semester, contact the program manager or instructor. It is the student’s responsibilty to have access to the required software for a particular program or course.
Additional Notes on Computer Specifications
Some interntet/online courses require more RAM and hard drive capacity due to specialized software needs. If you are in a program that requires extensive computer skills (CIS and NET, etc.), you may need to purchase additional software, and your computer needs may be higher than what is noted above. Check with program faculty prior to making purchases. Also, note that some classes may be specific to Windows or Mac OS devices. It is the student’s reponsibility to have access to devices that meet the required computer specifications for their programs and courses. The Haywood Community College Bookstore has a selection of laptop computers for purchase. Financial Aid may apply.