System Requirements for Budget Analysis Training
Our program runs smoothly on most devices purchased within the last five years. You don't need a high-end workstation—just reliable hardware that can handle spreadsheets and data visualization tools without freezing up.
Operating System
Windows 10 or later works best for our tools. MacOS Catalina and up also handles everything smoothly.
- Windows 10/11 (64-bit recommended)
- MacOS 10.15 or newer
- Linux Ubuntu 20.04+ (for advanced users)
Processor & Memory
A mid-range processor from the past few years paired with 8GB RAM handles our coursework comfortably. More memory helps when working with larger datasets.
- Intel Core i5 / AMD Ryzen 5 or better
- 8GB RAM minimum (16GB preferred)
- Dual-core at 2.5GHz or faster
Storage Space
You'll need about 50GB free for software installations and project files. SSD storage speeds up loading times significantly.
- 50GB available disk space
- SSD recommended for performance
- Additional space for personal projects
Internet Connection
Stable broadband connection ensures smooth video lessons and real-time collaboration. We've designed sessions to work on connections as modest as 10Mbps.
- 10Mbps minimum download speed
- 5Mbps upload for video sessions
- Wired connection preferred for stability
Display & Peripherals
A second monitor makes multitasking easier but isn't mandatory. Good audio matters more than you'd think for following along.
- 1920x1080 resolution minimum
- Webcam for interactive sessions
- Headset with microphone recommended
Security Setup
Keep your system updated and use standard antivirus protection. We'll guide you through securing sensitive financial data properly.
- Updated antivirus software
- Firewall enabled and configured
- Regular system updates installed
Software We'll Use Throughout the Program
Most tools we rely on are either free or have educational licenses. Microsoft Excel forms the backbone of budget analysis work, and we'll show you techniques that work in both Excel and Google Sheets.
Power BI Desktop comes free from Microsoft and handles visualization needs nicely. For those interested in going deeper, we introduce Python with Jupyter Notebooks around week eight—completely optional but valuable for automation.
We provide detailed installation guides and troubleshooting help during the first week. Everyone starts from the same baseline, regardless of prior experience with these platforms.
Core Applications You'll Install
Microsoft Excel 2019+
Primary tool for budget modeling and variance calculations. Office 365 subscription or standalone version both work.
Power BI Desktop
Free download from Microsoft for creating interactive dashboards and visual reports.
Google Workspace
Free account needed for collaborative exercises and shared project files.
Zoom Client
Latest version for live sessions and screen sharing. We use breakout rooms frequently.
PDF Reader
Adobe Acrobat or similar for course materials and reference documents.
Text Editor
Notepad++ or VS Code if you explore Python modules later in the curriculum.
Technical Support Throughout Your Learning
Most technical hiccups happen in week one when everyone's getting set up. We schedule extra office hours during September 2025 just for installation help and configuration questions.
Our teaching assistants run daily troubleshooting sessions during the first two weeks. After that, we maintain a dedicated Slack channel where students help each other—you'd be surprised how often someone else already solved your exact problem.
Hardware failures do happen occasionally. We've partnered with a local computer shop in District 10 that offers student discounts on repairs and upgrades. They understand our requirements and can usually fix issues within a day or two.
If your laptop dies completely mid-course, we have three backup machines available for short-term loan. These run all our software and let you continue without missing deadlines while you sort out a replacement.
Cedric Halloway
Completed October 2024
My five-year-old laptop handled everything fine. I upgraded to 16GB RAM halfway through just to speed things up.
Briony Ashford
Current Student
Installation guides saved me hours. Everything worked on MacOS without any weird compatibility issues.
Gareth Pemberton
Graduated March 2025
Tech support channel answered my printer driver question at 11pm. Someone's always around to help.
Ready to Check Your Setup?
Download our system checker tool or schedule a quick call with our tech team. We'll verify everything works before the September 2025 cohort begins.
Contact Technical Support