Chromebooks, Windows S mode, iOS and Android tablets, and eReaders, are not fully compatible with all GCU systems. We recommend using a desktop or laptop computer running Windows or Mac to complete your coursework.
While Chromebooks may look and feel similar to a laptop computer, they run on a modified version of the Android operating system. For this reason, they are not fully compatible with all GCU systems. If you are using a Chromebook, we recommend that you view eBooks through the Web Viewer option (if it is available in your course) and utilize the Microsoft Online Programs in the GCU Portal to complete assignments.
Windows 10 and 11 have the potential to utilize “S” mode. S mode is a version of Windows that is streamlined for security and performance, and may be enabled by administrators for public school computers, work computers, etc. Devices running Windows S mode may encounter issues downloading and installing programs such as Microsoft 365 and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Windows S limits users to only download programs available within the Windows App store. For this reason, we recommend that you view eBooks through the Web Viewer option (if it is available in your course) and utilize the Microsoft Online Programs in the GCU Portal to complete assignments.
For more information about Windows S mode, see Microsoft’s FAQ page about Windows 10 and Windows 11 in S mode.
Please note that GCU Technical Support will not assist in disabling Windows S if you have it enabled, as this will make a permanent change to your device.
When using iOS and Android tablets, you may encounter issues when downloading and installing programs such as Microsoft and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Most tablets limit users to only download apps available in the app store. For this reason, we recommend that you view eBooks through the Web Viewer option if it is available in your course, and utilize the Microsoft Online Programs in the GCU Portal to complete assignments.
When using eReaders you may encounter issues when downloading and installing programs such as Microsoft 365 and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Using eReaders limits users to only download apps available in the app store. If your eReader has an internet browser you may be able to view your eBooks through the Web Viewer, and utlize the Microsoft Online Programs in the GCU Portal to complete assignments.
For more information on the minimum hardware and software requirements, see GCU Technical Requirements.