Technical Requirements for Budget Preparation Program
Our online budget preparation courses run smoothly on most modern devices. Here's what you'll need to participate fully in sessions starting September 2025.
Updated for 2025 program requirements — tested across Australian internet conditions
Finnian Ashcroft
Technical Coordinator
"Most participants join us without any special equipment. A decent laptop and stable connection — that's honestly all you need to get started."
Quick Check
- Computer less than 5 years old
- Chrome, Firefox, or Edge browser
- 15 Mbps download speed
- Headphones with microphone
- Quiet space for sessions
Computer & Operating System Requirements
We've designed our platform to work across Windows, macOS, and even Linux systems. Most laptops and desktops from the past five years handle our tools without breaking a sweat.
Processor
Intel i5 / AMD Ryzen 5 or better
Dual-core minimum, quad-core recommended for smoother multitasking during live sessions
RAM Memory
8 GB minimum / 16 GB ideal
Budget software plus video conferencing can use 4-6 GB during peak usage
Storage Space
256 GB SSD recommended
You'll need about 20 GB free for software, course materials, and your project files
Display
1920×1080 resolution (Full HD)
Spreadsheets and financial dashboards are easier to work with on larger screens
About tablets and Chromebooks: They'll work for watching recorded sessions and reading materials, but you'll struggle with hands-on exercises. A proper computer makes a real difference when you're building actual budgets.
Windows Users (10 or 11)
- Regular Windows updates installed
- Microsoft Office 2019 or newer
- Microsoft Edge or Chrome browser
- Windows Defender active and updated
- Administrator access for software installation
macOS Users (Monterey or newer)
- Latest macOS updates applied
- Microsoft Office for Mac or Excel alternative
- Safari 15+ or Chrome browser
- At least 30 GB free storage space
- Admin privileges for app installations
Internet Connection & Network Setup
We've tested our platform across different Australian ISPs — from NBN connections in Brisbane to regional ADSL in Bundaberg. Here's what actually works in practice.
Download Speed
15 Mbps minimum / 25+ Mbps ideal
Live video sessions use 3-5 Mbps, but you'll want headroom for screen sharing and materials
Upload Speed
5 Mbps minimum / 10 Mbps recommended
Important when you're sharing your screen during group work and mentor consultations
Connection Type
Wired Ethernet preferred
WiFi works fine, but cable connections eliminate those annoying dropout moments
Latency
Under 100ms ping time
Affects how quickly you can interact during live sessions and collaborative exercises
Regional internet users: If you're on satellite or mobile broadband, download session recordings beforehand. The platform adapts video quality automatically, and you can participate via audio-only when needed.
Test Your Current Speed
Run a speed test at speedtest.net during evening hours when your connection is busiest. That's your realistic baseline.
Check Network Stability
Run the test three times over an hour. Consistent results matter more than peak speeds — budget sessions run 2-3 hours.
Position Your Router
If using WiFi, place your router centrally and away from walls. Simple repositioning often fixes weak signals in home offices.
Plan Around Household Usage
Streaming services and gaming use significant bandwidth. Schedule study time when others aren't watching Netflix in 4K.
Software & Browser Requirements
You won't need expensive software subscriptions. Most tools we use are either free or already installed on your computer. And browser compatibility? We keep it simple.
| Software | Purpose | Version | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Primary browser for platform access | Version 120 or newer | Free |
| Microsoft Excel | Spreadsheet work and budget templates | 2019 or Microsoft 365 | Paid / Free alternatives available |
| Zoom Client | Live sessions and group discussions | 5.16 or later | Free (provided by ionarentlo) |
| PDF Reader | Course materials and worksheets | Adobe Acrobat or browser built-in | Free |
| Google Sheets | Alternative to Excel for budget work | Web-based (current version) | Free with Google account |
Browser Settings You'll Need
- JavaScript enabled (it's on by default)
- Cookies allowed for ionarentlo.com
- Pop-up blocker adjusted for platform
- Microphone and camera permissions granted
- Notifications enabled for session reminders
Optional But Helpful Tools
- Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)
- Note-taking app (OneNote, Notion, Evernote)
- Second monitor for easier multitasking
- Wireless headphones for mobility during sessions
- Backup internet option (mobile hotspot)
Don't have Microsoft Office? Google Sheets handles 95% of what we teach. We provide templates in both formats, and conversion between them is straightforward for budget work.
Audio & Video Equipment
Decent audio matters more than fancy cameras. You'll spend hours listening to instruction and discussing concepts with classmates — a good headset prevents fatigue and improves concentration.
Microphone
Built-in or USB headset mic
Background noise cancellation helps in home environments with family members or street noise
Webcam
720p minimum / 1080p preferred
Most laptops have adequate cameras — external webcams offer better positioning flexibility
Headphones
Over-ear or in-ear with good seal
Eliminates echo during video calls and helps you focus during 2-3 hour sessions
Lighting
Natural light or desk lamp
Face a window or use a lamp behind your monitor so others can see you clearly on camera
Budget-Friendly Options
- Logitech H390 USB headset ($50-70 AUD)
- Built-in laptop webcam and microphone
- Standard earbuds with inline mic
- Desk lamp positioned for face lighting
- Quiet room with door that closes
Premium Setup (Optional)
- Logitech C920 webcam ($120-150 AUD)
- Blue Yeti USB microphone ($180-220 AUD)
- Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones (noise cancelling)
- Ring light for professional appearance
- Dedicated home office space
Audio quality tip: Test your setup before the first session. Recording a short video of yourself helps identify echo, background noise, or volume issues that are easy to fix beforehand.
Need Help With Setup?
We run free technical orientation sessions in August 2025 before program start. Test your equipment, troubleshoot issues, and ask questions in a relaxed environment.