The Basics: What Works, What Doesn't
Our platform runs in your web browser. That's it. No complicated downloads, no specialized software that costs hundreds of dollars. Just a decent internet connection and something to browse on.
Operating Systems
- Windows 10 or newer
- macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later
- Chrome OS (recent versions)
- Linux (most distributions work fine)
Web Browsers
- Chrome 100+ (recommended)
- Firefox 95+
- Safari 15+
- Edge 100+
Internet Connection
- Minimum 5 Mbps download
- 2 Mbps upload is plenty
- Stable connection matters more than speed
- Mobile hotspots work, but can be spotty
Hardware Specs
- 4GB RAM minimum (8GB preferred)
- Any processor from the last 7 years
- Screen resolution of 1280x720 or higher
- Mouse or trackpad (touch screens work too)
Real talk: If you can stream Netflix without constant buffering, you're probably good to go. We've had students successfully use tablets, Chromebooks, and even older laptops from 2016. The platform adapts.
Mobile Access: Yes, But With Limits
Can you use your phone? Sure. Should you plan to do everything on your phone? Probably not.
The mobile experience works for checking progress, reviewing quick lessons, and staying connected. But for the interactive exercises and detailed analysis tools, you'll want a proper screen. I've seen people try to do everything on mobile. It's just frustrating.
Security Requirements (The Non-Negotiables)
This is where we get a bit strict. Financial data needs protection. Here's what we require:
Two-Factor Authentication
You'll need a smartphone capable of receiving SMS messages or running an authenticator app. Email-only verification isn't enough for account security.
Updated Browser Security
Outdated browsers have known vulnerabilities. We check your version and will prompt you to update if needed. Takes maybe ten minutes, tops.
Secure Connection
Public WiFi at coffee shops? Not ideal for accessing financial platforms. If you must use public networks, consider a VPN. We recommend it but don't mandate it.
Cookie and JavaScript Settings
Our platform needs these enabled to function. Most people never touch these settings anyway, but if you've customized your browser for privacy, you might need to allow exceptions for our domain.
Accessibility Features
We've worked hard to make the platform usable for everyone. Screen readers work with our interface. Keyboard navigation is fully supported. Text can be resized without breaking layouts.
If you use assistive technology and run into issues, let us know. We test regularly, but real-world feedback helps us improve faster than any automated test ever could.
One of our members in Halifax uses voice control exclusively. She helped us identify three navigation issues we'd completely missed. The platform is better because she spoke up.
Optional But Helpful
Not required, but these make the experience smoother:
Webcam and microphone: Useful for optional community video sessions and recorded check-ins. Not mandatory for core program content.
PDF reader: Some resources download as PDFs. Your browser probably handles these already, but a standalone reader gives you better annotation tools.
Spreadsheet software: Excel, Google Sheets, or LibreOffice. Helpful for tracking exercises, but we also have built-in tools if you prefer to stay in-platform.
What Happens If You Don't Meet Requirements?
We check your system when you first log in. If something's not compatible, we'll tell you exactly what needs fixing. No cryptic error messages.
Most issues are solved with a browser update or clearing your cache. Tristan's handled hundreds of these setup calls. The average resolution time? Under eight minutes.
Questions About Compatibility?
Not sure if your setup will work? Reach out before you commit. We'd rather answer questions up front than have you discover issues after enrollment.
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