The University of Massachusetts Amherst's Canvas learning management system is a crucial tool for students, faculty, and staff. To ensure a smooth and efficient experience, it's essential to meet the system requirements. As of 2025, the following are the recommended system requirements for using UMass Amherst Canvas:
Computer and Hardware Requirements
To access Canvas, you’ll need a computer or mobile device with a reliable internet connection. The minimum hardware requirements include:
- A desktop or laptop computer with a 2.0 GHz dual-core processor or higher
- At least 8 GB of RAM (16 GB or more recommended)
- A 256 GB or larger solid-state drive (SSD) or hard drive
- A compatible operating system, such as Windows 10 or macOS High Sierra (or later)
Additionally, a webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones are necessary for participating in online discussions, video conferencing, and accessing multimedia content.
Browser and Software Requirements
Canvas supports various web browsers, but it’s recommended to use the latest version of:
- Google Chrome (version 90 or later)
- Mozilla Firefox (version 88 or later)
- Safari (version 14 or later)
- Microsoft Edge (version 90 or later)
It’s also essential to have the following software installed:
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (for viewing PDF files)
- Microsoft Office or Google Docs (for creating and editing documents)
- A media player, such as VLC or QuickTime (for playing video and audio files)
| Browser | Minimum Version |
|---|---|
| Google Chrome | 90 |
| Mozilla Firefox | 88 |
| Safari | 14 |
| Microsoft Edge | 90 |
Mobile Device Requirements
If you plan to access Canvas on a mobile device, you’ll need:
- A tablet or smartphone with a compatible operating system, such as iOS 14 or Android 11 (or later)
- A minimum screen resolution of 1024x768 pixels
- A reliable internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular)
The Canvas mobile app is available for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to access courses, assignments, and discussions on-the-go.
Accessibility Requirements
UMass Amherst is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment. To ensure equal access to Canvas, the following accessibility features are recommended:
- A screen reader, such as JAWS or VoiceOver (for users with visual impairments)
- A keyboard-only navigation system (for users with mobility impairments)
- High contrast mode or a color scheme that meets the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 standards
What are the recommended internet speeds for using Canvas?
+The recommended internet speeds for using Canvas are at least 1.5 Mbps for standard definition video and 3.0 Mbps for high definition video. However, a faster internet connection (5.0 Mbps or higher) is recommended for optimal performance.
Can I use Canvas on a Chromebook?
+Yes, you can use Canvas on a Chromebook. However, please ensure that your Chromebook meets the minimum hardware requirements and has the latest version of the Chrome browser installed.
By meeting these system requirements, you’ll be able to use UMass Amherst Canvas smoothly and efficiently, accessing all the features and tools you need to succeed in your academic pursuits.
