Internet Access
You need to be signed up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) In order to access the Internet from home. Be sure to choose a provider that permits you to use a Web browser.. Some providers require the use of their own proprietary browser; these browsers may not provide all the functionality needed for your online course(s). If you are using a provider like this (for example, AOL), you must minimize that program and use an alternate Web browser to access Angel.
If you do not have home Internet access
For persons without home internet access, the following options are available
- Computers are available on Richland's campus in many locations:
- Learning Resource Center (Library)
- Technical Resource Center (C239)
- Kiosk outside the Learning Resource Center
- Student Learning Center (S117)
- Computers are available for public use at the Decatur Public Library.
- Wireless Internet access (WiFi) is available in many locations.
Home Computer Requirements
Before beginning your online course(s), your computer needs to be up-to-date with the appropriate hardware and software requirements. Your home computer needs to have the following:
- Operating System: Windows XP or higher or MAC OSX or higher
- Network connection: 56K modem connection minimum; Broadband, DSL, or Wireless high-speed connection highly recommended
- Browser Plug-ins: (please refer to the System Check on the Angel homepage for more information)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Flash
- JavaScript enabled
- Anti-virus Software: Keep virus definitions updated and scan your computer on a regular basis.
- Note: It is strongly recommended that only one anti-virus program be used on your computer; if more than one is used, there is a strong possibility they will conflict with each other and cause problems.
- Spyware Removal Software: Keep spyware/malware/adware definitions updated and scan your computer on a regular basis.
- Note: It is strongly recommended that more than one spyware removal program be used on your computer; sometimes one application may detect a new threat that another program may not.
- Application Software: Richland Community College uses Microsoft Office 2007, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
- If you do not have Microsoft Office 2007: Office 2007 documents are not compatible with older versions of Office (2000, XP, or 2003). However, there is a free "Compatibility Pack" available from Microsoft, that once installed on your home computer, will allow you to open Office 2007 documents.
- If you do not have Microsoft Office: There are links to free software viewers available for download on the Online Learning Downloads page. These viewers will allow you to view and print Microsoft Office documents, but not create or modify them. There are also links to free, open-source software programs that emulate Microsoft Office on the Online Learning Downloads page.
- NOTE: If you use any software program other than Microsoft Office for courswork, care must be taken to save the document in a format that your instructor(s) will be able to open (Microsoft format, or Rich Text Format). Contact the Online Learning Help Desk if you need assistance with this
- Important: Not all online courses require the use of Microsoft Office; please check with your instructor(s) for specific course requirements.
