• We recommend either Safari or Google Chrome for both Mac and Windows computers.  Firefox Final Release Channel is supported by Blackboard.
• If you must use Internet Explorer, we recommend setting it to Standards Mode (Compatibility mode turned on). 
• Even if other browsers connect to Bb, they have not been tested and are not recommended.
• Note for AOL and other Users of Proprietary Browsers:
  These browsers are not compatible with Blackboard.
  This is a known issue with the software that affects all users of company-specific browsers.
  If you use AOL or a similar provider for your Internet service, follow these steps.
  1. Log in as you normally do.
  2. Minimize the browser they provided to remain connected to the Internet.
  3. Launch a stand-alone Web Browser, e.g., Safari or Chrome.
  4. Log into CSUStan Blackboard.

  You may need to return to your AOL/company browser occasionally to keep that connection active. 
  Warning: Switching browsers during a test/quiz may lock you out.

Since differences in browsers, operating systems, system settings, applications, utilities, plug-ins, and personal settings can alter your performance, be prepared to use an alternate computer, ISP, or browser when you encounter issues. 

In general, both Safari and Chrome work well for both students and faculty on all computer platforms. 

We cannot provide guarantees due to the way applications continue to change and how individual computer set-ups and Internet Service Providers can affect performance.  If you experience technical difficulties, contact the OIT Help Desk first, 667-3687.

Do not take tests using a wireless connection.

Turn off all browser popup blockers or set them to exclude csustan.edu before logging into Blackboard, especially for test taking.

If you have turned off or set exclusions for your popup blockers and continue to have problems, contact the OIT Help Desk, L-150, 667-3687.

Javascript and Cookies must be set to enabled or true.  Java must be enabled.

When you see the window with the Trust, Run, or Accept button, click it.  If you see a check box for Always Accept, click it.

Some courses may require plug-ins for your Web Browser. Basic configurations include the following.  Use the automatic update setting for these and other applications. These are free downloads. 

Adobe Reader for PDF files - Mac & Windows

Adobe Web Players for Flash, Shockwave, and Authorware Players - Mac & Windows

Flip4Mac® WMV Components for Mac QuickTime to view Windows Media files

QuckTime for QuickTime movie files - for Mac & Windows

Sun Java SE Runtime for Windows (built in to Mac OS X through 10.6)

Windows Media Player for Windows media files

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Other Free Applications

RealPlayer for Mac and Windows

VLC for Mac and Windows ("It plays everything!")

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Contact the OIT Help Desk, L-150, 667-3687, for technical assistance.

Most courses will require an office suite application such as Microsoft Office® or OpenOffice (see Plugins & Readers).

See your course information for any specific requirements for the class.

Some software is freeware or open source; other programs can be purchased as shareware or from commercial vendors.

Please honor the software creator's licensing.