Computer Tech Check and Speed Test

Computer minimum specifications:

Windows and Macintosh

  • 2GHz or faster processor, 8GB or more of RAM
  • Please maintain an up-to-date operating system and web browser

We do NOT support:

  • Taking courses on mobile devices
  • Linux/Chromebook
  • Beta versions of any software
  • Operating systems discontinued by manufacturers

Connection Speed

  • You need a minimum internet speed of 5 Mbps. The recommended speed is 10 Mbps. Check your Internet speed.

For Technical Questions and Computer/Software Troubleshooting:
(617) 998-8571
AcademicTechnology@dce.harvard.edu
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 10 am–11 pm (Summer School hours: Monday-Thursday 9 am-10 pm); Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10 am–8 pm.

Finding Your Computer Specifications

MacOS

  • Select the Apple Icon then select "About This Mac". 
  • Note the version, computer description, processor, and memory (RAM)

About This Mac is circled as the first item in the Apple icon

Processor, Memory, and MacOS are listed alongside other system information.


Windows 11

  • Click on the Windows icon

Windows icon

  • In the Search Box, type “about”

  • Click “About your PC”

Search tool. About your PC is the first result.

  • Look for “Processor” and “Installed RAM” in the “Device Specifications” section 

The top of the window reads Settings. Below that is list with the second option, System, selected. To the right are the Device Specifications and the Windows Specifications sections.

Look for “Manufacturer” and “Model”



Windows 10: Tiles

  • Be aware that Windows 10 is no longer supported by Microsoft.
  • Select the Windows Start button  on your keyboard.
  • Then click the Search Tool (magnifying glass icon in upper right-hand corner). Windows Search magnifying glass in top right corner
  • In the search bar, type 'system'. 
  • Note the operating system, processor, and installed memory (RAM)Overview of Windows specifications

Windows 10: Classic Shell

  • Be aware that Windows 10 is no longer supported by Microsoft.
  • Click the Start Button then right-click "This PC" then click Properties.Drop-down menu for properties
  • Note the operating system, processor, and installed memory (RAM)Windows specifications



Finding Your Connection Speed

  1. To run a speed test, go to https://speedof.me then select "Accept" (this accepts their Private Policy and that you consent to use of Cookies for this service.)
  2. Select "Start Test"speed test interface with start button
  3. Check that your Download speed and Upload speed are at minimum 5 Mbps. The recommended speed is 10 Mbps.
  4. Speed test results