You don’t need a gaming rig to study online. You do need a reliable computer, a steady connection and a plan for the day something breaks.
The quick take
- Check your program’s technology requirements before buying anything; a tablet or Chromebook isn’t always enough.
- A stable connection matters more than raw speed for video sessions and proctored exams.
- The FCC’s Lifeline program offers a monthly discount on internet or phone service for eligible households.
- Back up your work automatically and turn on two-factor authentication for your school account.
The right setup is less about expensive gear and more about avoiding the few problems that derail online students: a computer that can’t run required software, a connection that drops during an exam, and a lost assignment with no backup.
The essentials
| Item | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Computer | A laptop or desktop that meets your program’s stated requirements; check operating system needs for proctoring tools |
| Internet | A stable home connection; Ethernet or a spot close to the router for exams and live sessions |
| Webcam and microphone | Built-in is usually fine; a headset helps in a noisy home |
| Backup | Cloud storage that syncs automatically, plus an external copy of important files |
| Security | Up-to-date software, a password manager and two-factor authentication on your school account |
About internet speed
In 2024, the Federal Communications Commission raised its benchmark for broadband to 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload. You don’t need that much for one video class, but your connection is shared with everyone else at home. Stability matters more than headline speed: if video freezes during busy hours, try a wired connection before paying for a faster plan.
If cost is a barrier
- Lifeline, the FCC’s program for low-income households, provides a monthly discount on phone or internet service for eligible households. (The larger Affordable Connectivity Program ended in June 2024 after its funding ran out.)
- Many internet providers offer low-income plans; ask directly.
- Public libraries often lend laptops and hotspots, and many colleges have loaner programs and on-campus computer labs.
- Your school’s financial aid office may be able to include a computer in your cost of attendance.
Coach’s tip
Have a backup plan before you need it: know where the nearest library or quiet café with Wi-Fi is, and save your instructor’s contact details somewhere other than your laptop.
Habits that save hours
- Turn on automatic backups for your course folder.
- Keep your operating system and browser updated, but not during finals week.
- Test your webcam and microphone before every live session or proctored exam.
- Bookmark your learning platform’s status page and the IT help desk.
Good tech saves time, but the bigger factor is how you plan your week; see how many hours an online course really takes.
You might be wondering
Q: Can I do my degree on a tablet or Chromebook?
A: Sometimes, but many programs require software or proctoring tools that only run on Windows or macOS. Check the program’s requirements first.
Q: What internet speed do I need?
A: For video classes, a stable connection of a few megabits per second up and down per video call is usually enough, but the whole household shares your connection. A plan that meets the FCC’s broadband benchmark leaves room to spare.
Q: Does my school provide software?
A: Many schools give students free or discounted office software, cloud storage and security tools. Check the IT or student technology page before you buy.
Policies differ by school and change over time. This guide is general information for online students in the U.S.; check your school’s current policies and your program’s requirements before you enroll.