DET Technical Requirements

Getting ready for the Duolingo English Test isn’t just about practicing your English skills. Here’s something that catches many test-takers off guard: technical problems can completely invalidate your test session. Imagine spending weeks preparing, paying the test fee, and then having your results voided because your internet connection dropped or your webcam didn’t meet the specifications. It’s frustratingly common, and it’s entirely preventable.

DET Computer Specifications

Your computer serves as the testing environment, and not every machine can handle the demands of a proctored online exam. The DET platform runs sophisticated proctoring software that monitors your screen, tracks your movements, and records audio-video simultaneously while you complete test sections. This creates surprisingly high demands on your system resources. Let’s start with what actually matters. You’ll need a desktop or laptop computer—tablets and smartphones aren’t supported, period. The testing software requires full desktop functionality with proper keyboard input and screen control. Mobile devices simply can’t provide the secure testing environment that proctoring demands.

Processor speed matters more than people realize. Your computer’s CPU needs enough power to run the test interface, streaming video, audio recording, and proctoring software all at once without lag. Older computers with single-core or low-speed processors often struggle with this multitasking load. You’ll notice this as freezing, delayed responses, or choppy video during your test—all problems that can affect your score or trigger security concerns. RAM memory is equally critical. Think of RAM as your computer’s working space. When multiple programs run simultaneously, they all need room to operate. The DET platform recommends at least 2GB of RAM as a bare minimum, but that’s cutting it extremely close. Modern operating systems already consume a significant portion of RAM just running in the background. With 2GB, you’re essentially maxing out your system capacity, which leaves no buffer for stability.

Here’s what works better in practice: 4GB of RAM provides comfortable breathing room for the test software and operating system. With 8GB or more, you eliminate RAM-related concerns entirely. If you’re unsure about your RAM capacity, you can check this in your system settings—and it’s worth upgrading if you’re below 4GB and planning to take the test seriously. Storage space requirements are relatively modest. You’ll need approximately 500MB of free disk space for the test application and temporary files. However, operating systems function poorly when storage is nearly full. A good rule of thumb is maintaining at least 10GB of free space on your primary drive. This ensures your system can create temporary files, cache data, and operate smoothly during the test session.

Your display matters too, though it’s less commonly a dealbreaker. The test interface requires a minimum screen resolution of 1024×768 pixels. Most modern monitors and laptop screens exceed this easily, but if you’re using an older or smaller display, verify this specification. The testing interface needs adequate space to display questions, controls, and proctoring elements simultaneously. One technical point that surprises many test-takers: the DET doesn’t support virtual machines or emulated environments. You can’t run the test on a virtual Windows installation on a Mac using Parallels or VMware. You can’t use remote desktop connections or cloud computing services. The test must run on physical hardware with direct control. The proctoring system detects virtualization and will reject your setup during the system check.

DET Windows requirements

Windows users have broader compatibility, but specific versions matter. The DET supports Windows 8.1 and newer versions, including Windows 10 and Windows 11. Older versions like Windows 7 or Windows XP aren’t supported, even if they technically run the software. The security protocols and browser compatibility simply don’t work reliably on outdated operating systems. Before your test, verify your Windows version by opening Settings, navigating to System, and selecting About. You’ll see your exact Windows version and build number listed. If you’re running Windows 8.1, 10, or 11, you’re good to go. Anything older requires an operating system upgrade before you can take the test.

Windows updates deserve attention too. You don’t need the absolute latest update, but you shouldn’t be multiple years behind on security patches. Outdated systems often have compatibility issues with modern web applications and security protocols. Set aside time before your test date to install pending Windows updates. This process can take hours depending on how far behind you are, so don’t leave it until the day before. Administrator access becomes important during setup. The test application may need to install components or adjust system settings during initial setup. If you’re using a work computer or school laptop with restricted permissions, you might encounter installation barriers. Ideally, use a personal computer where you have full administrative rights.

Antivirus software and Windows Defender require careful handling. You don’t want to disable security entirely, but overly aggressive antivirus programs sometimes flag test software as suspicious because of how it monitors your screen and webcam. Add the DET application to your antivirus whitelist or trusted programs list. This prevents your security software from interfering with test functionality. Windows firewall settings also need consideration. The test software communicates with remote servers throughout your session, sending video, audio, and response data continuously. If your firewall blocks these connections, your test can’t proceed. The system check usually identifies firewall problems, but it’s smarter to ensure your firewall allows the test application through all networks—private and public.

DET Mac requirements

Mac users need macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or later versions. This includes Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, and Sonoma. The test platform leverages specific security and permissions frameworks that older macOS versions don’t support properly. Check your macOS version by clicking the Apple menu and selecting About This Mac. Here’s something Mac users frequently overlook: system permissions. macOS has strict privacy controls that require explicit permission for applications to access your camera and microphone. When you first run the DET system check, macOS will prompt you to grant these permissions. Don’t just click through these dialogs quickly. Actually read them and click Allow. If you accidentally deny permission, you’ll need to manually enable it later in System Preferences under Security & Privacy.

The permissions issue goes deeper than initial setup. After macOS updates, permission settings sometimes reset or require reconfirmation. Before your actual test date, open System Preferences, navigate to Security & Privacy, and verify that your browser has camera and microphone access enabled. Also check screen recording permissions if your macOS version includes that category. Mac users should also verify that FileVault encryption won’t interfere with test software. FileVault is generally fine to leave enabled, but some older implementations caused performance issues with streaming applications. If you experience unusual lag during practice tests, temporarily disabling FileVault is worth testing—just remember to re-enable it afterward for security. One Mac-specific concern: Safari browser compatibility can be finicky with some test platforms. While Safari often works, Chrome or Firefox typically provide more reliable performance for the DET. Having an alternative browser installed gives you options if you encounter compatibility issues during your system check. Background processes on Mac deserve attention too. If you’re running resource-intensive applications like video editing software, music production tools, or multiple browsers with dozens of tabs, close these before testing. Activity Monitor (found in Applications > Utilities) shows what’s consuming your system resources. If you see any single application using more than 50% of your CPU consistently, that’s a red flag for test day.

DET Internet Speed Requirements

Internet connectivity might be the single most common technical failure point for DET test-takers. The test isn’t just downloading occasional data—it’s continuously streaming your webcam video and microphone audio to proctoring servers while simultaneously receiving test content and uploading your responses. This creates sustained bandwidth demands that many home internet connections struggle to meet. The official minimum requirement sits at 2 Mbps download speed and 1 Mbps upload speed. Now, here’s the reality check: these minimums represent the absolute bare threshold where the test technically functions. They don’t account for any network fluctuation, other devices sharing your connection, or the stability issues that plague marginal connections. Testing at minimum specs is asking for trouble.

What works better in practice? Aim for at least 5 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload speeds as your actual minimum. This provides headroom for the inevitable variations in network performance. If you can secure 10 Mbps or more in both directions, you eliminate internet speed as a potential failure point entirely. Understanding the difference between download and upload speeds matters here. Download speed affects how quickly test questions, images, and interface elements load on your screen. Upload speed determines how efficiently your webcam video, microphone audio, and test responses transmit to the testing servers. For most internet plans, download speed significantly exceeds upload speed—and it’s that upload speed that causes problems more frequently. Network stability is just as critical as raw speed. An internet connection that bounces between 10 Mbps and disconnected is far worse than a steady 3 Mbps connection. The DET system can’t handle interruptions gracefully. Even brief connection drops lasting just seconds can trigger test termination or flag your session for security review. Latency—the delay between your computer sending data and receiving a response—adds another dimension to connection quality. High latency creates lag between your actions and the test interface responding. While exact latency requirements aren’t published, you want latency below 100 milliseconds. Satellite internet connections often exceed this, making them unsuitable for the DET despite sometimes having adequate speed.

DET internet stability tips

Wired connections beat wireless connections every single time for test stability. If you can physically connect your computer to your router using an ethernet cable, do it. Wired connections eliminate the interference, signal drops, and congestion issues that wireless networks experience. You’ll see this reflected in more consistent speeds and virtually zero connection dropouts. Can’t use a wired connection? Then optimize your wireless setup. Position yourself as close to your wireless router as possible—ideally in the same room. Walls, floors, and distance all degrade WiFi signals. That cozy study corner at the far end of your house might have terrible WiFi coverage even if your internet plan is fast.

Test your WiFi signal strength before test day. On Windows, the wireless icon in your taskbar shows signal bars. On Mac, hold Option while clicking the WiFi icon to see detailed signal information. If you’re below 70% signal strength, you’re risking connection problems. Consider relocating closer to your router or using a WiFi extender for that area. Here’s something that catches people off guard: other devices sharing your network. Every smartphone, tablet, smart TV, gaming console, and laptop connected to your WiFi consumes bandwidth. During your test, disconnect other devices or ask family members to stay offline. That Netflix stream in the next room or someone’s video game download can easily destabilize your connection enough to cause test problems.

Schedule your test during low-traffic times if possible. Internet service providers sometimes experience congestion during peak evening hours when everyone in your neighborhood is online simultaneously. Early morning or mid-afternoon testing slots often have more reliable connectivity than 7-9 PM time slots. Router placement and settings offer optimization opportunities. Your router should sit in an open, central location—not hidden in a closet or behind furniture. If your router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, the 5GHz band typically provides faster speeds but shorter range, while 2.4GHz offers better range but more interference from other devices. For testing, choose the band that gives you the strongest signal. Mobile hotspots deserve special mention. Using your phone’s cellular connection as a backup can work, but it’s risky. Cellular connections experience more variability than home broadband, and data caps might cause problems during a 60-minute test session. If mobile hotspot is your only option, verify you have strong 4G or 5G signal strength and unlimited data.

Understanding upload and download speeds

Download speed determines how fast data flows from the internet to your computer. When you load a webpage, stream a video, or receive test questions, you’re using download bandwidth. Most internet plans emphasize download speed in their marketing because that’s what customers notice most in daily use. Upload speed controls data flowing from your computer to the internet. When you post photos, send emails, or—critically for the DET—stream webcam video to proctoring servers, you’re using upload bandwidth. Internet service providers typically provision much less upload bandwidth than download bandwidth because most internet use is download-heavy. The asymmetry between upload and download speeds explains why many test-takers pass the download speed requirement easily but struggle with uploads. A typical home internet plan might offer 100 Mbps download but only 5 Mbps upload. For normal use, this works fine. For the DET, that upload speed becomes the bottleneck.

Test your actual speeds using online speed test tools. Websites like Fast.com, Speedtest.net, or the Google speed test provide free measurements of your connection. Run multiple tests at different times of day to understand your connection’s performance range. Pay particular attention to upload speeds—that’s where problems usually hide. Don’t just test once and assume you’re set. Internet speeds fluctuate based on network congestion, time of day, and other factors. Run speed tests during the same time slot you plan to take your actual test. If you’re testing at 2 PM on a Tuesday, your evening speeds might be significantly different. Interpreting speed test results requires some understanding. Mbps (megabits per second) measures your connection speed. Higher numbers are better. If your results show 5 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload, you’re at the recommended minimum. If you’re seeing 20 Mbps download but 0.5 Mbps upload, your upload speed is insufficient even though download looks fine. Connection consistency matters as much as peak speeds. Some speed test tools show you the stability of your connection over the test duration. Look for large variations—if your speed bounces from 10 Mbps to 1 Mbps repeatedly, that instability will cause problems even though your average speed might be acceptable.

DET Webcam and Microphone Requirements

Your webcam and microphone aren’t just recording devices—they’re the primary tools the proctoring system uses to verify your identity and monitor test conditions. Poor quality peripherals create problems both for technical functionality and for meeting security requirements. The DET requires a working webcam that clearly shows your face throughout the entire test. Built-in laptop webcams usually work fine for this purpose. External USB webcams are also acceptable and sometimes provide better image quality than older laptop cameras. What doesn’t work: virtual cameras, emulated cameras, or camera feeds from another device or application. Camera resolution has a minimum threshold. While specific resolution requirements aren’t always published explicitly, your webcam needs to produce a clear image where your facial features are easily distinguishable. Most modern webcams meet this easily with 720p or 1080p resolution. Older webcams from 2010 or earlier might produce grainy, low-resolution images that fail proctoring requirements. Lighting conditions affect camera quality significantly. Your webcam might be perfectly capable, but if you’re sitting in a dark room or with harsh backlighting from a window behind you, the image quality degrades dramatically. The proctoring system needs to clearly see your face, eyes, and mouth throughout the test. Test your camera in the actual room where you’ll take the test, at the same time of day, with similar lighting conditions. Your microphone quality is equally important. The test includes speaking sections where you verbally respond to prompts. If your audio is muffled, distorted, or contains excessive background noise, it can affect your speaking score. Built-in laptop microphones generally work, but they’re not always ideal—they often pick up keyboard typing noise, fan noise from the computer itself, and ambient room sounds.

Webcam specifications and setup

Camera positioning matters more than most test-takers realize. Your webcam should be at eye level, directly in front of you, at a distance that clearly shows your entire face and shoulders. If your webcam angle is too high or too low, it creates an awkward view that might trigger proctoring flags. The system needs to see that you’re looking at your screen, not elsewhere in the room. External webcam users should secure the camera properly. Wobbly webcams that shift position during the test can cause problems. If you’re using a clip-on webcam attached to your monitor, make sure it’s firmly attached and won’t slide down or change angle when you adjust your screen.

Test your webcam before test day using your browser’s camera test tools or video calling applications like Zoom or Skype. Check that the image is clear, properly lit, and correctly framed. If the image looks grainy, washed out, or too dark, adjust your lighting or camera settings. Many webcams have automatic exposure and white balance that adapt to lighting conditions—give these a minute to adjust when you first turn on the camera. Privacy covers and physical camera blockers need to be removed completely. Some laptops have built-in camera covers, and many people add aftermarket privacy covers to their webcams for security. Don’t forget to open or remove these before starting your test—it’s a surprisingly common oversight that causes immediate technical failure.

Background considerations extend to what’s visible behind you. While the DET doesn’t have strict background requirements like some professional exams, extreme clutter, other people moving behind you, or inappropriate materials in view can potentially trigger proctoring concerns. A simple, tidy background works best. Camera drivers and software sometimes cause compatibility issues. If you’re using an external webcam, ensure the manufacturer’s drivers are properly installed. Some older webcams require specific software to function correctly. Test your camera specifically with your browser—just because it works in one application doesn’t guarantee it works in another.

Microphone quality and testing

Audio quality affects your speaking score directly, so microphone testing deserves serious attention. The DET’s speaking sections require clear, intelligible audio recordings of your responses. Mumbled, distorted, or noisy audio makes scoring difficult and potentially lowers your performance rating. Built-in laptop microphones vary dramatically in quality. Premium laptops often have decent microphone arrays with noise cancellation. Budget laptops frequently have poor quality microphones that pick up every nearby sound. Test your laptop’s microphone by recording yourself speaking and playing it back. Does it sound clear? Can you understand every word easily? Is there excessive background noise?

External microphones can improve audio quality significantly. A simple USB microphone typically outperforms built-in laptop microphones for clarity and noise rejection. However, don’t go overboard—you don’t need professional studio equipment. A basic desktop USB microphone in the $20-40 range provides substantial improvement over poor built-in options. Here’s a critical technical point: Bluetooth headphones and wireless audio devices aren’t allowed for the DET. The proctoring system requires direct, wired connections for audio devices. If you want to use headphones with a microphone, they must connect via physical cable to your computer’s audio jack or USB port. This restriction exists because wireless devices can potentially be used to receive outside assistance during the test.

Microphone positioning affects recording quality significantly. If using an external microphone, position it 6-12 inches from your mouth, slightly to the side rather than directly in front. This reduces plosive sounds (harsh “P” and “B” sounds) while maintaining clear audio. If using a built-in laptop microphone, maintain consistent distance from your laptop throughout the test—leaning closer or farther away changes audio levels noticeably. Background noise is your enemy during audio testing. Test your microphone in your actual test environment, at the expected test time. Can you hear traffic noise, neighbors, household appliances, other family members, or outdoor sounds in your recording? If so, address these noise sources. Close windows, turn off fans, ask others to remain quiet, and choose a time when external noise is minimal. Audio levels require attention too. Your microphone shouldn’t be so sensitive that normal speaking creates distorted, clipping audio. Nor should it be so quiet that you need to shout to be heard clearly. Most operating systems allow microphone level adjustment in sound settings. Test different levels and adjust until your normal speaking voice produces clear audio without distortion. Microphone testing tools are available in most operating systems. Windows users can access microphone properties through Sound settings and use the “Test your microphone” feature. Mac users can use the Voice Memos app to test recording quality. Additionally, online voice recording tools let you capture and play back test recordings to evaluate quality.

DET Browser and System Compatibility

Browser compatibility is non-negotiable for the DET. The test runs as a web application through your internet browser, and only specific browsers are officially supported. Using an unsupported browser guarantees technical problems—either the system check will fail, or you’ll encounter functionality issues during the test. Chrome is the most reliable browser for the DET and the recommended choice. Google Chrome provides consistent compatibility across Windows and Mac systems, handles the test interface smoothly, and generally causes fewer technical issues than other browsers. If you don’t already have Chrome installed, download it directly from Google’s official website before your test.

Firefox also works for the DET, though it’s typically the second choice after Chrome. Firefox users occasionally report minor interface quirks or compatibility issues that Chrome users don’t experience. If you prefer Firefox, test it thoroughly during the system check before your actual test. Safari compatibility on Mac is hit-or-miss. While Safari sometimes works, it’s less reliable than Chrome or Firefox for the DET platform. Safari’s strict privacy settings and unique handling of web technologies can create unexpected issues. Mac users should install Chrome or Firefox rather than relying on Safari. Edge, Opera, Brave, and other browsers have limited or no official support. Even if these browsers are Chrome-based (like Edge and Brave), they may have modified features or settings that interfere with test functionality. Don’t risk using unsupported browsers—stick with Chrome or Firefox. Browser updates are essential. The DET platform leverages modern web technologies that older browser versions don’t support properly. If you’re using Chrome or Firefox from two years ago, you’ll likely encounter compatibility problems. Update your browser to the latest version before taking the test. Most browsers update automatically, but verify manually in browser settings that you have the current version.

Supported browsers and updates

Chrome updates happen automatically in the background for most users, but you should manually verify you have the latest version. Open Chrome, click the three dots menu in the upper right, navigate to Help > About Google Chrome. Chrome will check for updates and install them automatically. After updating, restart your browser completely—don’t just close and reopen it, but quit the application entirely and restart. Firefox updates follow a similar process. Click the menu button, select Help > About Firefox. The browser checks for updates and installs them. Like Chrome, restart Firefox completely after updating. Don’t skip this restart—some updates don’t take full effect until the browser relaunches.

Browser extensions and add-ons can interfere with test functionality. Ad blockers, privacy extensions, VPN extensions, and other add-ons might block elements of the test interface or interfere with proctoring components. Before your test, disable all browser extensions. In Chrome, navigate to Extensions settings and toggle off all extensions. In Firefox, go to Add-ons Manager and disable all add-ons. Pop-up blockers require special attention. The DET interface may use pop-up windows for certain components or notifications. If your browser blocks these pop-ups, you’ll experience functionality issues. Disable pop-up blocking for the DET website specifically, or temporarily disable it entirely during your test. Both Chrome and Firefox allow you to manage pop-up settings in Privacy and Security settings.

Browser cache and cookies sometimes cause unexpected issues if corrupted data interferes with test functionality. If you experience strange browser behavior during practice tests, clear your browser’s cache and cookies. This forces the browser to download fresh data from the test platform. In both Chrome and Firefox, you can clear browsing data through Privacy settings—select “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and site data.” Incognito or private browsing modes aren’t recommended for the DET. While they might work technically, these modes disable certain browser features and storage mechanisms that the test might rely on. Use your browser’s normal mode with extensions disabled rather than incognito mode. Browser permission settings are crucial for webcam and microphone access. When you first launch the DET system check, your browser will prompt you to allow camera and microphone access. You must click “Allow” for the test to function. If you previously denied these permissions, you’ll need to manually reset them in your browser’s site settings. Look for camera and microphone permissions in your browser’s privacy settings and ensure the DET website has access.

DET technical troubleshooting

Even with proper preparation, technical issues occasionally occur. Knowing how to troubleshoot common problems quickly can save your test session or help you resolve issues before test day. System check failures are the most common issue. The DET provides a system check tool that verifies your computer, internet, webcam, microphone, and browser meet requirements. If the system check fails, it usually identifies the specific problem. Read error messages carefully—they often tell you exactly what needs fixing. Common system check failures include insufficient internet speed, missing browser permissions, or outdated software.

If your internet speed test fails during system check, try the following: close all other applications and browser tabs, ensure no other devices are using your network, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds then reconnecting, and test from a location closer to your router. If speeds still fall short, consider upgrading your internet plan or finding an alternative testing location with faster internet. Webcam not detected issues usually stem from permission problems or driver issues. First, verify your browser has camera permission for the DET website. Second, check that no other application is currently using your camera—close Zoom, Skype, Teams, or any other video application. Third, try restarting your computer, which resets camera drivers and clears software conflicts. If problems persist, test your camera in other applications to determine if it’s a hardware failure or software issue.

Microphone problems follow similar troubleshooting steps as webcam issues. Verify browser permissions, close other applications using your microphone, restart your computer, and test microphone functionality in other applications. Also check physical connections if using an external microphone—a loose USB connection or unplugged audio jack explains many microphone failures. Browser compatibility issues sometimes appear during testing. If the test interface doesn’t load properly, displays error messages, or behaves strangely, try these steps: clear your browser cache and cookies, disable all browser extensions, update your browser to the latest version, or switch to Chrome if using a different browser. One of these steps usually resolves browser-related problems.

Audio-video sync problems occasionally occur where your audio and video recordings fall out of sync during the test. This typically indicates either insufficient system resources or network bandwidth issues. Close unnecessary applications to free up CPU and RAM, verify your internet speed meets requirements, and ensure you’re using a wired connection if possible. Computer crashes during the test are concerning but manageable. The DET has policies for handling technical disruptions, including computer crashes, power outages, and internet disconnections. If your computer crashes, restart it immediately and attempt to reconnect to your test session. The platform typically allows you to continue if the disruption was brief and clearly technical in nature. However, if problems persist or occur multiple times, your test session may be terminated and require rescheduling. Firewall and security software conflicts sometimes prevent the test from running properly. If you encounter connection errors or the test interface won’t load despite working internet, check your firewall settings. Add the DET platform to your firewall’s allowed list, and temporarily disable other security software that might block test components. Remember to re-enable security software after completing your test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Technical preparation for the Duolingo English Test isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about ensuring nothing prevents you from demonstrating your English abilities. A computer that meets specifications, a stable internet connection, properly functioning webcam and microphone, and a compatible browser are all essential components of test success. Test these elements thoroughly before test day using the official system check tool, and address any issues with enough time to find solutions. The time you invest in technical preparation protects your test investment and lets you focus entirely on the test content rather than worrying about technical failures. With proper preparation, technical issues become one less thing to worry about on test day.