Check your computer and browser
Never used BigBlueButton before, verify your setup meets the minimum requirements:- Browser: Latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari
- Internet: Stable broadband connection (minimum 1 Mbps up/down; 5 Mbps recommended for webcam)
- Audio: Headset with microphone recommended (reduces echo)
- Webcam: Built-in or external USB webcam
Run through this First-Day Checklist
The best way to learn is by doing. Follow the script below using a two browsers (so you can be both teacher and student) or, even better, invite a friend to join you do the steps together to ensure everything works.Start a session at my.bigbluebutton.com
Create a BigBlueButton session at https://my.bigbluebutton.com/.
Test your audio
Join a session and complete the audio echo test. Confirm you can hear yourself and that your microphone is working. See Join the Audio.
Test your webcam
Enable your webcam and verify the preview looks correct. Adjust lighting so your face is clearly visible. See Share a Webcam.
Upload a test presentation
Upload a PDF or slide deck to make sure it renders correctly. Check that all pages appear and text is readable. See Upload a Presentation.
Try screen sharing
Share your screen or a specific application window. Verify participants would see what you intend. See Share My Screen.
Explore the interface
Familiarize yourself with the toolbar, chat panel, user list, and presentation area. See Interface Overview.
If you run into issues during testing, check the Troubleshooting guide.
Get familar with your front-end
You are likely using a learning management system (LMS) for teaching with BigBlueButton. The BigBlueButton integration is built-into the core of Canvas, Moodle, and Sakai.Canvas
Set up BigBlueButton conferences in Canvas.
Moodle
Create BigBlueButton activities in Moodle.
Sakai
Use BigBlueButton meetings in Sakai.
Personal Rooms
Create standalone rooms with custom names and settings — no LMS required.
If you run into issues during testing, check the Troubleshooting guide.