The University of Toronto has identified the following minimum technical requirements needed for students to access remote/online learning:
UTORid is also Required
Your UTORid and password provide access to online services like email (UTmail+), course content on Quercus, webinars, library resources, Microsoft365 applications, network services for international students, WiFi for those on campus, and more. For more information about getting your UTORid visit tcard.utoronto.ca.
Please reference the information below for additional information regarding recommended accessories, internet connectivity and frequently asked questions.
If you have additional questions, please contact your local IT help desk:
Students operating adaptive tech software at home for remote learning may have a need for a system with greater capabilities. If there are questions or concerns it would be best to reach out to the adaptive tech point person on the respective campus for further discussion.
University of Toronto Mississauga: Accessibility Services
Rachel Oh
Web: www.utm.utoronto.ca/access
Phone: 905.569.4699
Email: access.utm@utoronto.ca
University of Toronto Scarborough: AccessAbility Services
Web: www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~ability/
Phone: 416.287.7560
Email: ability@utsc.utoronto.ca
University of Toronto St. George: Accessibility Services
Lake Porter
Web: www.accessibility.utoronto.ca/
Phone: 416.978.8060
Email: accessibility.services@utoronto.ca
Many courses will have synchronous (live) online meetings using webinar software. While many PCs are equipped with speakers and a microphone, using headphones with an attached microphone for these sessions is recommended.
Many courses will have synchronous (live) online meetings using webinar software. While many laptop PCs are equipped with a video camera, some laptop PC and most desktop PC users may need to use a compatible USB video camera.
In some cases, students may need to provide an image of physical work completed. A compatible scanner or camera may be required. A mobile device equipped with a camera may also be acceptable.
High speed broadband access (LAN, Cable or DSL) with minimum download speed of 5Mbps is strongly recommended.
A wired connection (ethernet) to the home router is also recommended over WiFi connectivity to achieve the most reliable results.
If broadband connectivity is not available, tethering to a mobile device such as a smartphone with strong signal and minimum download speeds of 5 Mbps is an option, although not recommended. Mobile Internet connectivity through a tethered mobile device will likely not be adequate for online video collaboration as the network latency and unreliable nature of cellular connectivity can result in poor video quality.
Expanded use of your Internet connections (broadband or mobile) may cause you to exceed your monthly data plan allowance and result in significant overage charges. An unlimited data plan, if available, is highly recommended.
Note: Many internet service providers (ISP) are suspending usage limits on their home internet plans to accommodate the surge of customers who are working remotely. ISPs including Bell, Rogers, and TekSavvy have confirmed they are waiving internet overage charges for customers on limited home internet plans for respective time periods. Check your ISP’s website for their COVID-19 accommodations and to confirm how long their overage suspension is in effect.
Certain programs or courses may have additional requirements exceeding the Minimum Technical Requirements and Recommended Accessories listed here. Please refer to the program or course requirements for additional guidance.
PC refers to a personal computer. A suitable PC may be a Windows- or macOS-based desktop or a laptop. A laptop is recommended. While much can be done with Chromebooks, tablets, smartphones, and other mobile devices, they are not guaranteed to support all course related software requirements.
The operating system running on your PC should be a current and supported version of Windows or macOS. A current and supported OS ensures the latest functionality and security updates are available. You will also require the necessary access to install new software on your PC as needed.
The current version of Firefox or Google Chrome browser is recommended. These browsers are available for all platforms. A current and supported browser ensures the latest functionality and security updates are available.
Many courses require the use of productivity software – word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet applications. The Microsoft Office suite of applications is available for free to University of Toronto students (UTORid and @utoronto.ca email address required). Office applications (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint) may accessed via a browser or may be installed on your PC.
Access: https://mail.utoronto.ca.
The online app menu can be accessed by clicking on the waffle icon in top left hand corner. PC installable software may be downloaded by accessing the app menu and clicking on Office 365. From the Office 365 page, select Install Office.