Connection Speed

Once you have ensured that your computer has the proper operating system and hardware to run Blackboard Vista as detailed in our System Requirements page, you should verify that your network connection is fast enough to support Blackboard Vista. Online courses may require students to download/upload large files and often include streaming audio and video, both of which are optimized to work on faster connections.

Windows and Macintosh Users - Check Connection Speed

1. Check your internet connection download and upload speeds using the connection test. If your dowload speed results are 384 kbps or faster and your upload speed results are the same or higher than those listed below for your type of service, you should proceed to Web Browser Compatibility. If your download speed results are slower than 384 kbps and your upload speed results are less than those listed below for your type of service, please proceed to Step 2.
   
   Here are some guidelines for upload speeds:
   • Dial-up users can expect 40 kbps or lower depending on the quality of phone lines and modems.
   • Cable modem providers often cap their customer's upload bandwidth at 128 kbps or 256 kbps, but if they don't it can be as fast as 1000 kbps.
   • DSL users can expect 64 kbps to 1,500 kbps depending on the level of service purchased.
   
   
2. If your internet connection is slower than the recommended speeds listed in Step 1, you may still use Blackboard Vista. However, you will encounter difficulties when loading pages, especially during peak usage times. You will also find that both audio and video playback can be very choppy. Additionally, downloading or uploading assignments may take a long time. If your internet connection is less than our recommended minimum speed and you cannot upgrade your internet connection, please contact your Student Services Coordinator.