Downloads


Home
Getting Started
Registration Tips
Online Degrees
Online Advising Forums
Student Help Desk
Resource Center
Net Tools Center
Faculty Center

[Back] [Engines] [Web Hound] [Search Tips] [Evaluating Sources] [Netiquette] [Email Basics] [Downloads]

Your computer may already have the software you need to access most of our online classes. But if you do not have recent versions of software, you may need to download them or additional plug-ins to be able to access all of your online course material. Use the links provided below to download FREE versions of the software most commonly needed in our online classes. Check with your instructor to find out whether you will need any special plug-ins. 

Browser Software
Two Web browsers are recommended for use with our distance learning software: Firefox (version 2 is fully-tested with our distance learning software, version 3 testing is almost done) and Microsoft Internet Explorer (version 6 or 7
). Note: We strongly advise against using AOL's proprietary Web browser. (AOL-provided Internet service is OK; just don't use the Web browser AOL provides.)

To download a free Web browser, click on the following links. 

bullet Firefox: for Macintosh or Windows PCs
bulletInternet Explorer: for Windows PCs


After you have downloaded your browser of choice, be sure to configure it according to the System Requirements on the Etudes gateway page or as directed by your instructor. 

 

Multimedia Software
You
may need to download Quicktime Player or RealPlayer
in order to play audio or video for a class. To view PDF documents, you may need Adobe Reader software. If the software is required for your class and it is not already installed on your computer, you can download it from the links below. Once you download it, be sure to install it by double-clicking on the installer file. Note that each of these programs has a free version for viewing files and paid versions with additional features. The free version should be sufficient for most of our classes.

bullet Quicktime: for Macintosh or Windows PCs
bullet RealPlayer: for Macintosh or Windows PCs
bulletAdobe Reader: for Macintosh or Windows PCs

 

Some SF Bay Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
A high-speed Internet connection such as DSL or cable will provide the most satisfying online experience for most of our online classes. Dial-up will likely not be fast enough, and satellite connections are not recommended. Below are a couple of Internet Service Providers in the San Francisco Bay Area, but your options will depend on your local community.

bullet AT&T
bulletComcast

 

Foothill College - News & Info - Programs - Divisions - Schedule - Student Services - Apply & Register
Online Library - International Programs - Athletics - Contact Us - District/DeAnza Page