To take an online class, you need a way to log online–a computer and Internet connection. If you currently don’t know much about computers, don’t worry; It is fairly easier to pick out a great machine and get all of the software you need to take an online class. Many online colleges have staff members who are more than willing to talk you through this process, and you can use the following tips to get started with your online class.

Laptop or Desktop? PC or Mac?

The most important purchase you’ll make for your online education is your computer. If you’re currently using an extremely old computer or a public computer, you’ll need to shop around for your own updated computer before classes begin. Having an unreliable machine can cause you to fail classes or miss out on lectures or group meetings. The bottom line? A computer is necessary!

Your two options are laptop or desktop. If you plan to complete your entire education online, a laptop is typically the better option. You’ll pay slightly more, but you can take your laptop (and thus, your schoolwork) with you wherever you go, making use of time that would otherwise be wasted, such as while you’re waiting for an appointment to start. You can also travel during the semester when you have a laptop, which is not possible with a desktop.

The main advantage to a desktop, though, is that it isn’t quite as costly. If you’re short on cash, a desktop is reliable enough to ensure that you can get your coursework done, even if it is slightly inconvenient to be tied to a single location. For some people, having a desktop helps to cut down on distractions as well.

Once you’ve determined whether you want a laptop or desktop, you’ll need to choose between a PC or Mac. In general, PCs are less expensive, but Macs are better in terms of quality. If you’re pursuing an education in art, graphic design, movie editing, or a related area, it usually pays to shell out the extra money for a Mac. Otherwise, a PC is powerful enough to take online classes. Read more about the differences here.

No matter what type of computer you purchase, check with the school where you’ve been enrolled to find out system requirements. In most cases, you’ll need only a very basic set-up to pursue an online education.

Peripherals

In most cases, your computer will come almost everything you need to take a class. The one peripheral you may want to pick up is a headset. This will allow you not just to hear your professor and other students (most computers have built-in speakers), but it also allows you to speak in return. Many online schools hold classes and meetings using only text communication, but being able to speak with your classmates can be invaluable, especially if you don’t type very fast. Even if you don’t intend to use a headset to talk to others, having one means that you can do work in public locations.

Another peripheral you should consider is a webcam. Webcams can take your online experience to the next level, allowing you to have closer connections to other students and your teacher. Most online colleges don’t require webcams, but it’s a good option if you can afford it.

Software

In most cases, the computer you purchase will come with most of the software you need to take an online class. What you don’t already have, your school should provide to you via links. For example, you’ll probably need Adobe Acrobat Reader to see certain documents, but this program is available free online. Every online college is different, so check with your school to find out your software requirements, along with links where you can safely download these programs for free.

You will, however, need some form of word processing in order to write and turn in papers and do other forms of homework. You can order programs like Microsoft Word to come with your computer, but if you’re short on cash, look into their inexpensive counterparts. Programs such as Open Office are free and give the the ability to complete your assignments.

Your Internet Connection

Once you have a computer and the right software, you’ll need an Internet connection. Check with your school for requirements, but don’t worry too much about needing a connection that costs a ton of money. You probably won’t be able to take an online class with a dial-up connection, but even the least expensive cable or DSL Internet packages should work well enough for you to take an online class. With so many students taking classes online, schools know that they can’t demand you spend a fortune to sign up for classes.