It is essential that you obtain at least the 'basic' hardware needs to go online listed in the 'Essentials' column. To make your online learning more fun, easier and interactive, you could obtain the hardware listed in the 'Suggested' column. Any type To facilitate online interaction between lecturers and tutors with the student via. To 'download' online notes and materials to be printed. This would enable 'offline' reading of the materials in 'hard copy' which not only increases portability but also saves online costs.
Software refers to the computer programmes needed to run the computer.
The most basic software is the operating system e.g. Windows 98 developed by Microsoft. Most software are bundled in and loaded when new computers are purchased. Besides an operating system, you would need other software to enable you to browse the internet, to process your text documents, to listen to lectures and so on. Software could be installed either from CD-ROM, floppy disks or could be downloaded from the internet. The table below is provided below to guide you on your software requirement.