What You'll Need to Get Started

Most people worry they need fancy equipment or expensive software. Not true. We've kept things simple because what matters is understanding the concepts, not owning the latest tech. Here's what actually works for learning financial terminology in 2025.

Student workspace with laptop and financial documents Modern learning environment for financial education
Imogen Kelway, Technical Support Coordinator

Imogen Kelway

Technical Support Coordinator

"We get asked about equipment all the time. Honestly? If you can browse websites and watch videos, you're already sorted. Most problems come from outdated browsers, not old computers."

Basic Hardware Setup

You don't need a powerful machine. We've tested our platform on computers from 2017 and they work fine. The bottleneck is usually internet speed, not processing power.

  • Desktop, laptop, or tablet (phones work but aren't ideal for reading long documents)
  • 4GB RAM minimum – most computers from the last seven years have this
  • Screen resolution of 1280x720 or higher for comfortable reading
  • Webcam and microphone if you're joining live Q&A sessions (optional but helpful)
  • Speakers or headphones – you'll want these for video lessons

Real Talk

We had someone complete the entire course on a 2016 MacBook Air. Another person used a budget Chromebook. Both did great. Your learning matters more than your gear.

Internet Connection

This is where people actually run into issues. Videos buffer. PDFs won't load. Downloads time out. Here's what you need.

  • 5 Mbps download speed minimum for video lessons (test yours at fast.com)
  • Stable connection – inconsistent wifi causes more problems than slow speeds
  • Option to download materials for offline study if your connection is unreliable
  • Mobile data as backup works, though it'll eat through your allowance quickly

Common Issue

Port Macquarie internet can be patchy in some areas. If you're having trouble streaming, download the lesson videos during off-peak hours. They're available in lower quality versions too.

Software Requirements

Keep it simple. We don't make you install weird programs or buy expensive subscriptions.

  • Modern web browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge (updated within the last year)
  • PDF reader – most computers already have one built in
  • Spreadsheet program for some exercises (Google Sheets is free and works perfectly)
  • Email account you check regularly for course updates
  • Zoom or similar for live sessions (we'll send instructions before your first one)

No Hidden Costs

Everything listed here is either free or already on your computer. We're not affiliated with any software companies and won't push you toward expensive tools.

Common Tech Headaches & Fixes

Problem

Videos Won't Play

You click play and nothing happens. Or it buffers endlessly.

Solution Steps

  • Check your browser is updated (go to settings, look for "About")
  • Clear your browser cache – sounds technical but takes 30 seconds
  • Try a different browser as a quick test
  • Switch to lower video quality in player settings
  • Download the video file for offline viewing instead

Problem

Can't Submit Assignments

Upload button won't work or files show as corrupted.

Solution Steps

  • Check file size is under 10MB (compress PDFs if needed)
  • Use standard formats: .pdf, .doc, .docx, .xls
  • Rename file to remove special characters or spaces
  • Try uploading from a different device to rule out browser issues
  • Email it directly to support@mynorithael.com if problems persist

Problem

Audio Quality Issues

Sound cuts in and out during live sessions or recordings.

Solution Steps

  • Close other programs using your microphone or speakers
  • Check you're using the correct audio device in settings
  • Restart your computer – fixes more than you'd think
  • Use headphones with a built-in mic instead of laptop speakers
  • Contact us 24 hours before a session if issues continue

Still Not Sure About Your Setup?

Send us a quick message with what you're working with. We'll tell you straight whether it'll work or if you need to make changes. No sales pitch, just honest feedback.

Ask About Your Equipment