To access the LMS, your device must meet the requirements below. All required software has free versions available. Any device meeting these requirements, with a webcam and speakers, should be capable of handling virtual lessons on Google Meet.
If you’re buying a device for tuition, take this list to your local retailer for advice. GEORGEHALL TUITION recommends Macs for their reliability, long lifespan, and protection against viruses. They’re user-friendly, require minimal setup, and ensure more time is spent learning than troubleshooting.
Please see the end for detailed buying advice.
Device Requirements and Recommendations for LMS Access
Windows
| Category | Requirement | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 or later | Windows 11 |
| Processor | Dual-core processor | Intel i5 or equivalent |
| Memory | 4GB | 8GB or more |
| Storage | 4GB available disk space | 10GB or more |
| Required Software | Google Chrome, WPS Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Microsoft Authenticator (on a mobile device) | |
| Recommended Software | Microsoft Office |
Mac
| Category | Requirement | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| OS | macOS Big Sur (11) or later | macOS Monterey (12) or later |
| Processor | Dual-core Intel or Apple M1/M2 chip | Apple M1 or newer |
| Memory | 4GB | 8GB or more |
| Storage | 4GB available disk space | 10GB or more |
| Required Software | Google Chrome, WPS Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Microsoft Authenticator (on a mobile device) | |
| Recommended Software | Microsoft Office |
Linux
| Category | Requirement | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Ubuntu 18.04+, Debian 10+, Fedora 39+ | Ubuntu 22.04+ |
| Processor | Dual-core processor | Intel i5 or equivalent |
| Memory | 4GB | 8GB or more |
| Storage | 4GB available disk space | 10GB or more |
| Required Software | Google Chrome, WPS Office, Foxit PDF, Microsoft Authenticator (on a mobile device) |
iPhone
| Category | Requirement | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| OS | iOS 16 or later | iOS 18 or later |
| Apps | Google Chrome, WPS Office, Microsoft Authenticator |
Android
| Category | Requirement | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 8.0 Oreo or later | Android 12 or later |
| Apps | Google Chrome, WPS Office, Microsoft Authenticator |
If you are looking to buy a device for tuition, please take this list to your local retailer for guidance. GEORGEHALL TUITION recommends Mac computers for their unmatched reliability, smooth performance, and durable build quality. Macs are designed to last, often outliving cheaper alternatives by several years, making them a smarter long-term investment for your child’s education.
For parents who aren’t tech-savvy, Macs are ideal because they just work. They come ready to use straight out of the box, with no complicated setups or endless updates to deal with. Macs are also incredibly secure, with built-in protection against viruses and malware. Apple’s customer support is widely regarded as the best in the industry, and their stores offer hands-on assistance if you ever need help.
Macs also integrate perfectly with online learning tools like Google Meet and LMS platforms. They run all required apps smoothly, from WPS Office to Adobe Acrobat, without the crashes or glitches you might experience on other devices. Regular updates keep them running like new, and features like Night Shift, Focus Mode and Retina Display make them easy to use and great for long hours of study. With a Mac, your child can spend less time troubleshooting and more time focused on learning.
For mobile devices, I recommend iPhones or Google Pixel phones. iPhones are incredibly user-friendly, with a simple interface that anyone can pick up and use. They’re also great for privacy and security, protecting your child’s personal data. Google Pixels are another excellent option, offering reliable performance, clean software with no unnecessary apps, and great value for money. Both are perfect for managing tuition-related tasks and accessing tools like Microsoft Authenticator.
Finally, avoid Chromebooks if possible. While they may appear affordable, their limited functionality and reliance on an internet connection often cause frustration. Many essential apps don’t work properly, and Chromebooks can’t handle the full features of tools like WPS Office or Adobe Acrobat. They’re built for very basic use and often break down or become outdated much faster than Macs or Windows PCs, making them a false economy in the long run. Investing in a Mac ensures your child has a device that’s ready for everything their education requires.