Remote Contract Agent Computer & Network Specifications

Remote contracting companies have Minimum Equipment and Internet Speed Specifications that must be met in order to operate at the technology level necessary to successfully execute their Voice and Data transactions. If you bought your PC within the last two years and you subscribe to a High Speed internet service, there is a good chance that you already have most of what is required.

For verification of your current Computer and Network Specifications, become a ContractXchange Member and go to the Resume Builder/ 3 Online Tests, for submission instructions.   A Career Desk advisor will review and advise if you meet the minimum requirements, within 24 business  hours.
The list below provides an outline of the current specifications.


Version:11/04/2011
Recommendations For Success
  1. You are not required to make any Computer or Internet Service updates
    until you receive an Invitation to Training and are ready to register.  To
    protect you, you will not be permitted to register for a training course until
    you have passed all 3 Online Tests.
  2. Immediately after you have registered for a Client Training Course, you
    will be required to set-up your Business Phone (Landline or VoIP).
  3. Regularly update your PC-Belarc Report & Internet Speed Tests every
    6 months, to ensure it reflects current information from your home
    office location.
  4. If you are upgrading or purchasing new equipment, please print this
    document to provide your local retailer/technical.  
ITEM
SPECIFICATION

Computer

Regular Desktop computers are supported.

Laptops are not recommended or supported. If you choose to use a Laptop and run into issues, you may need to contact a local Technician, or be required to purchase a Desktop Computer.

Not Permitted: All-In-One desktops and Macintosh Computers.  

Note: Unless your computer has a "Boot Menu" your computer's BIOS must be set to boot from DVD before your Hard Drive. (Please verify with your PC vendor or technician).

Processor

1.8 GHz minimum.

DVD-ROM Drive

16x DVD-ROM, Dual Layer not necessary, just standard 4.7 GB Single Layer compatible. Note: External USB DVD ROMS not supported.

RAM Memory

2048 MB (2.0 GB) installed memory is recommended for optimal working speeds.

Minimum of 1536MB (1.5GB) installed (non-shared) memory.

Monitor

19 inch or larger (minimum 17 inch), resolution of 1024x768.
Not Permitted: TVs, Touch Screen Monitors, Dual Monitors, External Monitors (if using a Laptop).

Video Card

32 MB minimum / 128 MB recommended

Note: Intel & ATI video cards are not recommended or supported. You may be required to upgrade your video card if issues occur. Verify compatible upgrade with your PC technician.

Sound System

Sound card and speakers required.

Keyboard & Mouse

Wireless keyboards are not supported.  PS/2 keyboards recommended and USB types are supported. If problems occur you may be required to purchase a PS/2.

Wireless mice are not supported.  PS/2 and USB types are supported.

 

Router and Network Systems

Recommended Routers: Linksys and D-Link

Mandatory: All Network devices must be hardwired and the router must support VPN pass-through.  Please contact local PC Technician or Router manufacturer for assistance.

Note: VoIP Routers and Combination Modem/Router Units are not recommended as your primary router.It is strongly advised that your Network include a separate standalone Router and set-up as per the following Diagram:

See Diagram

Not Permitted: USB or Wireless Network Cards (must be disabled in the BIOS) Please see local PC technician for assistance if required.

Digital Web Camera

Certain clients will require a web camera for security monitoring purposes. Please check job posting on ContractXchange.com.

Phone Line or VoIP Providers

If your Home Office is located within the highlighted area, it is recommended that you set-up and use a normal Landline Phone with your Local Phone Provider.
If your Home Office is located outside the local calling area, you will be required to set-up dedicated VoIP phone line with a (416) or (647) area code.  
Not Permitted: 905 & 289 area codes are currently not supported. 
Not Permitted:  Virtual phones or PC based VOIP (i.e. Magic Jack or Skype). Network Calling Area Map

Telephone with Headset

Your telephone should be dedicated and clear of features – no call waiting, no call forwarding, no voicemail. Your headset should be of high quality and directly connected. There is a special headset offer available to all agents, see details in your Realtimexchange.

Not Permitted: Cordless/wireless phones, cordless/wireless headsets, USB phones, virtual phones, and mobile cell phones.

Internet Speed

Mandatory: High Speed Cable or DSL internet service.
Not Permitted: Wireless or Satellite ISPs
Download speed: 3 Mbps minimum (5 Mbps Recommended)

Upload speed: 400 kbps.
Quality of Service: 80%

Operating System
(Windows-Based Contracts: please see job posting to confirm.)

Recommended:  Windows XP (32-bit) Operating System is recommended to ensure compatibility with all Network Clients.

Supported by most Clients: Windows VISTA (32-bit) & Windows 7 (32-bit) Operating Systems. Please see specific Client’s Job Posting to verify any applicable Operating System restrictions.

Not Permitted: Windows 64-bit Operation Systems (ALL versions)

All Operating System versions must have the latest Microsoft Updates and Service Packs Installed

Browser

Internet Explorer: Minimum IE 6.0 (or newer) or IE compatible browsers only. You may be instructed by our Tech Support Department to install use a different browser to work for your contract.
DISCLAIMER

LiveXchange does not support or accept responsibility for 3rd Party or non-LiveXchange software or hardware.  You are solely responsible for configuring and maintaining items such as Windows Updates, Security/Anti-Virus Software or Home Networking Equipment and you may be referred to your local PC Technician for assistance.

If you think you need to upgrade or add computer equipment in any area or have any questions please contact the Career Desk at careerdesk@livexchange.com
Monday-Friday 9am-8pm/ET & Saturdays 10-2pm/ET
Live Chat: During business hours Toll Free: 1-877-987-WORK (9675)