TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS & SUPPORT

NorthStar Academy strives to be as accessible as possible to our families. However, there are certain requirements in order to have the best success at our school. Please check your system setup using the resources below:

• A Personal Computer (PC) or Tablet for each student/supervisor (we do not recommend sharing devices).
  • Note to Chromebook and iPad users: While the majority of course content can be viewed using a Chromebook or iPad, NorthStar Academy recommends a PC backup to ensure access to all course material across our school.
  • Note to MAC/iOS/Safari users: Due to the way Safari handles third-party cookies, Single Sign-On authentication will not work in Safari web browser. Please use an alternate web browser on your device, we recommend Google Chrome.
• Internet connection with a minimum 5Mbps download speed. To test your internet connection and speed, please click here.
• We highly recommend that you utilize an Anti-Virus program. Our software will detect suspicious items and not allow them to be submitted. In addition, you will want to check that your Anti-Virus settings are not set to block NorthStar sites and systems.
• A scanner or digital camera is required to submit handwritten work and projects.
• A webcam and microphone is needed for audio/video projects and live meetings. We recommend an external microphone or earbuds with a microphone to eliminate feedback noise in live meetings.
• NorthStar systems run optimally with Google Chrome web browser. Download Google Chrome at this link.
  • Required Web Browser Settings: JavaScript, Cookies, Third-Party Cookies, and Pop-ups must be allowed/enabled in your web browser settings for all NorthStar system websites (Genius, Buzz, Microsoft, eTextbooks, and course content).
  • Flash: Adobe will no longer support Flash content after December 2020. Our curriculum providers are working to update Flash content to the latest technology. However, at this time, you may encounter content that requires Flash to be enabled in your web browser, here’s how.
• Enrolled students and their supervisors will receive a complimentary NorthStar Microsoft Office 365 account. This account includes both the web and desktop versions of the following apps: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, and more.
• Assignments must be submitted in Microsoft Office or Google Apps format (Docs, Sheets, Slides, etc). A free Google Drive account can also be created, on your own, to use Google Documents.

Most technical issues can be resolved by: Meeting the minimum technical requirements for NorthStar systems Installing available updates on your computer and web browser Clearing your web browser’s cache and cookies Rebooting your device

Additional troubleshooting help: