Blackboard System Requirements and Recommendations

The tests below ensure your computer configuration meets the minimum requirements and optional requirments for all Blackboard features. Recommendations are noted as optional. Overall performance will vary based on hardware and connection speeds.

In addition to the following requirments, Frostburg State University recommends students have a version of Microsoft Office (perferably Microsoft Office 2003 or later). Click here for information on purchasing Microsoft Office at a discounted rate.


Internet Requirements:

The Blackboard Learning System is best utilized when accessed via a 256 Kbps Internet connection or higher. DSL or Cable Internet recommended. A list of local Internet Service Providers (ISP) is listed in the phonebook.

Hardware Requirements:

In order to participate in a fully online, blended or web-enhanced course at FSU, students must have reliable access to a computer with Internet access. The computer system the student uses must fulfill the requirements listed within this page. All computers available in the student computer labs on campus meet these hardware requirements.

512 MB of RAM (1024 MB Recommended)
1 GB of free disk space
8-bit (16-bit recommended) sound card and speakers
8X CD-Rom Drive (24X recommended)

Minimum Software Requirements:

  You are using Netscape Navigator .0


Java Requirement for Blackboard Collaboration Tools:

A text box should be displayed above detailing the version of Java Runtime Environment you have installed. If you do not see the text box above with the Java version then you do not have JRE installed.

Recommended Version: JRE 5 Update 7 (1.5.0_07) or higher

Install/Update Java Runtime Environment

Display Recommendations:

Recommended Screen Resolution: 1024 × 768 pixels (or higher)

Your Screen Resolution:

How do I adjust my screen resolution?

Optional Plug-In's (For viewing certain files and media):


Needed to open documents saved as Portable Document Format (PDF)


Needed to view Flash media objects (example: .swf files)


Needed to open Windows Media file formats (movies, music, etc.)


Needed to open QuickTime objects (example .mov files)


Needed to open RealPlayer media objects (radio streams, movies, etc.)