What You'll Need to Get Started

We've kept things straightforward. Most folks already have what they need sitting on their desk right now. Here's what works best with our platform and the learning materials we provide throughout 2025.

Computer & Browser Setup

Operating System

Windows 10 or later, macOS 10.14 or newer, or any recent Linux distribution. Honestly, if your computer is from the last five years, you're probably fine. We've had students running everything from basic laptops to high-end workstations.

Browser Requirements

Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge – just make sure it's updated to a version from the past year. Our platform works across all of them, though Chrome and Firefox tend to give the smoothest experience with our interactive charts.

Hardware Basics

4GB of RAM is the minimum, but 8GB makes things noticeably better when you've got multiple tabs open. A dual-core processor handles everything we throw at it. Storage isn't demanding – maybe 2GB free space for course materials and your notes.

Running an older machine? Get in touch. We've helped plenty of students work around hardware limitations without spending money on upgrades.

Internet & Software

Connection Speed

5 Mbps download speed works for our video content and live sessions. If you can stream a standard video without constant buffering, you're good. Mobile data works too, but you'll burn through it with the video modules.

Additional Tools

We use Google Sheets and Excel for some exercises – the free versions are perfectly adequate. You'll want a PDF reader, though most computers come with one. Everything else runs in your browser, no downloads required.

Mobile Access

You can access materials on tablets and phones, which works well for reading assignments. But the practical exercises really need a proper screen and keyboard. Think of mobile as your backup, not your main setup.

Irish students sometimes ask about connectivity in rural areas. Our platform adjusts video quality automatically, and all materials can be downloaded for offline review.
Modern workspace with computer setup displaying investment analytics and financial data on screen

Real Working Environments

This is what actual students are working with – nothing fancy, just solid equipment that gets the job done. Your setup doesn't need to look like a tech magazine spread. What matters is having reliable access to the tools and a comfortable space where you can focus.

Support When Things Go Sideways

Technical issues happen. We've seen everything from browser conflicts to mysterious audio problems that turned out to be muted speakers.

Setup Assistance

Before your program starts in autumn 2025, we run optional setup sessions. Walk through everything with someone who can spot issues before they become frustrating. Most people don't need this, but it's there.

Ongoing Tech Help

Email [email protected] when something isn't working right. We typically respond within a few hours during Irish business hours. For urgent issues during live sessions, there's instant messaging support built into the platform.

Alternative Access

Computer dies mid-program? We can arrange temporary library access or suggest co-working spaces around Ireland with the right setup. It's not ideal, but we've got options to keep you moving forward.

I was worried my five-year-old laptop wouldn't cut it. Turns out it handled everything perfectly. The team even helped me optimize some settings that made my whole computer run better. They're practical about this stuff, not precious.

Portrait of Cillian Brennagh, program participant

Cillian Brennagh

Completed Investment Foundations, February 2025

Portrait of Darragh Kilbride, technical support specialist

Darragh Kilbride

Technical Support

Been helping students get set up since 2023. Most technical problems take about ten minutes to solve once we actually look at what's happening. Don't struggle alone – just reach out.

Still Have Questions?

We get it – tech specs can feel abstract until you're actually using the platform. Schedule a quick call or send us an email. We can walk through your specific setup and make sure you're ready before the autumn 2025 programs begin.

Get in Touch