Technical Requirements

Let's address the elephant in the room: you might be worried about technical complexity. The good news? KC7 is designed to be remarkably simple from a technical standpoint.

You don't need special software, server infrastructure, or IT expertise. If your participants can browse the web, they can play KC7. Most technical issues have simple solutions, and this guide helps you avoid common pitfalls before they happen.

Think of this as your technical peace-of-mind checklist. We'll cover what you actually need (spoiler: it's minimal), what makes things easier, and how to test everything beforehand. By the end, you'll feel confident that the technology won't get in the way of the learning experience.

Quick Requirements Summary

KC7 is designed to be accessible with minimal technical requirements. Here's everything you need to ensure a smooth event.

🎯 The Essentials

• Internet connection (stable broadband recommended)

• Modern web browser (updated within last year)

• Computer or laptop (tablets work but aren't ideal)

• No special software required!

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📋 Detailed Requirements by Role

For Event Hosts

Minimum Requirements

• KC7 account (free at kc7cyber.com)

• Internet access to request event

• Email to receive approval and links

• Basic computer for event management

Recommended Setup

• Laptop/desktop for managing event

• Second monitor for tracking progress (optional)

• Backup internet connection for virtual events

• Microphone/camera for virtual hosting

For Participants

Minimum Requirements

• Device: Desktop, laptop, or Chromebook

• Browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge (updated)

• Internet: Stable connection (3+ Mbps recommended)

• Screen: Minimum 1024x768 resolution

• Input: Keyboard and mouse/trackpad

Recommended Setup

• Full-size screen (tablets work but aren't ideal)

• Wired internet connection for stability

• Headphones for virtual events

• Note-taking application or paper

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🌐 Browser Compatibility

Fully Supported Browsers

✅ Chrome (version 90+) ✅ Firefox (version 88+) ✅ Safari (version 14+) ✅ Edge (version 90+)

Limited Support

⚠️ Older browser versions - Update for best experience ⚠️ Mobile browsers - Playable but not optimized ⚠️ Internet Explorer - Not supported

Browser Settings

Ensure these are enabled:

• JavaScript

• Cookies (for session management)

• Pop-ups (for game interface)

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🏫 Venue Requirements

For In-Person Events

Essential Infrastructure

• Power outlets for all participants

• WiFi network capable of handling concurrent users

• Projection system for instructions (recommended)

• Tables and chairs with computer space

Network Considerations

• Bandwidth: 3 Mbps per participant minimum

• Open ports: Standard HTTPS (443)

• No firewall blocks to kc7cyber.com

• Guest network access (if needed)

For Virtual Events

Host Requirements

• Video platform (Zoom, Teams, Discord, etc.)

• Screen sharing capability

• Stable internet (10+ Mbps upload)

• Backup communication method

Participant Requirements

• Access to video platform

• Ability to view shared screen

• Secondary device helpful (phone for video, computer for game)

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🔧 Pre-Event Testing

One Week Before

• Test participant link on multiple browsers

• Verify network can handle expected load

• Check firewall/content filter settings

• Test projection/screen sharing setup

Day Before

• Confirm all links work

• Test with a sample participant account

• Verify venue WiFi credentials

• Prepare backup access methods

Day Of

• Arrive early to test everything

• Have IT support contact ready

• Test one machine fully before participants arrive

• Have backup plan ready

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🚫 Common Blockers & Solutions

School/Corporate Networks

Issue: Firewall blocking KC7 Solution:

• Whitelist *.kc7cyber.com

• Use guest network if available

• Consider mobile hotspots as backup

Issue: Content filters Solution:

• Request temporary exception

• Work with IT to pre-approve

• Test week before event

Browser Issues

Issue: Old browser version Solution:

• Update browser before event

• Have alternate browser ready

• Use portable browser if updates restricted

Issue: Browser extensions interfering Solution:

• Use incognito/private mode

• Disable ad blockers temporarily

• Try different browser

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📱 Device-Specific Notes

Chromebooks

✅ Fully supported

• Works great for KC7

• Ensure Chrome OS is updated

• Check school management settings

iPads/Tablets

⚠️ Functional but not ideal

• Smaller screen challenging

• Touch interface less efficient

• Consider external keyboard

Phones

❌ Not recommended

• Screen too small

• Interface not optimized

• Use only for event communication

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🔌 Bandwidth Calculator

Use this formula to estimate bandwidth needs:

Required Bandwidth = Number of Participants × 3 Mbps

Examples:

• 10 participants = 30 Mbps minimum

• 30 participants = 90 Mbps minimum

• 100 participants = 300 Mbps minimum

Add 50% buffer for optimal experience

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💡 Pro Tips

For Smooth Events

1. Test everything twice - Week before and day before

2. Have backup plans - Secondary internet, alternate browsers

3. Arrive early - Test setup before participants arrive

4. Document solutions - Keep notes for future events

For Large Events (50+ participants)

• Consider staggered start times

• Have dedicated IT support

• Test with maximum expected load

• Prepare offline activities as backup

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🆘 Quick Troubleshooting

Can't Access KC7

1. Check internet connection

2. Try different browser

3. Clear browser cache

4. Disable VPN if active

5. Check firewall settings

Slow Performance

1. Close unnecessary tabs

2. Check internet speed

3. Try wired connection

4. Reduce video quality (virtual events)

5. Consider smaller groups

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📞 Support Resources

Technical Issues During Event:

• First: Check this requirements list

• Then: Visit Discord for real-time help

• Email: [email protected] (24-48 hour response)

Pre-Event Planning:

• Review requirements with IT team

• Test participant experience

• Prepare contingency plans

Remember: KC7 is designed to be accessible! Most technical issues have simple solutions.