Using Canvas on a personal computer | Distance Education

When using Canvas on a personal computer, we recommend that you use the Google Chrome browser and run the Computer Readiness Test linked below.

HOW TO INSTALL CHROME

Google Chrome is the recommended browser for Canvas. There are known problems with Canvas in other browsers.  Steps to install Chrome:

1. On your computer, go to Google Chrome download page.
2. Click on the Download Chrome button. A new window will open.
3. Click the Accept and Install button. A file will download to your computer.
4. Click on the ChromeSetup.exe file that downloaded to your computer. If you don’t see it, look in the Downloads folder on your computer.
5. Click the Run button. A window will open asking “Do you want to allow the following program to make changes to this computer?”
6. Click the Yes button. Chrome will install.
7. Chrome will automatically launch.

The Computer Readiness Test will test your current browser for plugins and versions. Steps to run the test:

1. Go to the Computer Readiness Test page.
2. Click the Start button.
3. You will see results; scroll down to the bottom of the results page to see links for installing any outdated plugins. We provide recommendations in the table below:

Recommended Tools for Canvas

Tools

Recommendations for Canvas

Computer Processor

• Use a computer 5 years old or newer when possible
• 1GB of RAM
• 2GHz processor

Operating System

• Operating systems that can run the latest compatible web browsers. Your computer operating system should be kept up to date with the latest recommended security updates and upgrades. Recommended operating systems:
  • Windows 8.1 and newer
  • Mac OSX 10.6 and newer
  • Linux – Chrome OS
  • Chromebook – Chrome OS

Browser

Chrome is recommended for Canvas. Get the Chrome browser.

Mobile Devices

Canvas mobile apps require Android 8.0 or later and iOS 14.0 or later. Canvas offers limited support for native mobile browsers on tablet devices. For additional details, please reference the limited-support mobile browser guidelines.

Adobe PDF Reader 

Required for viewing PDFs files. Get Adobe reader. 

Oracle Java

Required for screen sharing in Canvas Conferences for the presenter only. 

Chrome no longer supports technology required for Java applets. Use the Firefox browser to screen share. Get Firefox or update Firefox, which will update Java.

Apple Quicktime

Not needed to run Canvas; for viewing .mov video file types.

Not supported on Windows; instructors should use .mp4 file types instead.

CANVAS SUPPORT HOTLINE

If you’re still having trouble with Canvas on your personal computer, call the Canvas Support Hotline available 24/7 to all SRJC students. The phone number is available in the Help menu in Canvas. A support agent will help you update your browser and plugins, if needed.