Device and Browser Requirements
Brush Ninja runs in a web browser and does not need any software installation.
This guide explains which devices and browsers work best in schools, and how to avoid common technical problems.
Who this is for
This guide is useful for teachers setting up new classes, IT staff supporting school devices, and anyone troubleshooting access issues.
It is especially relevant for schools using shared computers, Chromebooks, or tablets, and applies to all Brush Ninja tools.
Minimum requirements
Brush Ninja runs entirely in a web browser and does not require any software installation.
To use it reliably, students need a modern browser, an internet connection, and a basic way to draw or interact with the screen, such as a mouse, trackpad, or touch input.
No downloads, plugins, or extensions are required.
Recommended browsers
Brush Ninja works best in modern, up-to-date browsers. In most schools, Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge provide the most reliable experience. Mozilla Firefox and Safari on macOS and iPadOS also work well.
Keeping browsers updated is important. Older versions may cause problems with saving, exporting, or performance.
Not recommended
Very old browsers or heavily locked-down systems can cause problems. Internet Explorer is not supported, and browsers that disable local storage or downloads may prevent saving and exporting.
If students see blank screens or missing buttons, checking the browser is usually the first step.
Chromebooks
Brush Ninja works well on Chromebooks and is widely used in schools.
Most issues on Chromebooks are related to downloads and permissions rather than the app itself. Students should be able to download files freely and access the Files app to find their work.
If downloads do not appear, check that the school profile allows image and GIF files. Some managed accounts block these by default.
If animations feel slow, reduce the number of frames or canvas size. Simple projects usually run smoothly, even on older devices.
Windows and macOS computers
Brush Ninja works well on most modern laptops and desktop computers.
Current versions of Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari provide the best experience. Typical school devices with at least 4GB of memory are sufficient for most projects.
A mouse or trackpad works well for drawing, and graphics tablets can be used if they are already installed and configured correctly.
Recommended setup
- Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari
- At least 4GB RAM (typical school devices are fine)
- Mouse or trackpad
Graphics tablets also work if installed correctly.
Tablets and touch devices
Brush Ninja supports touch input and works on tablets, including iPads and Android devices.
On iPads, Safari and Chrome both work well, especially on recent versions of iPadOS. A stylus can improve control but is optional. Android tablets also work in Chrome, although performance varies depending on the device.
Smaller screens can feel cramped, making drawing and editing more difficult. File management may also be less straightforward on mobile operating systems, and some school profiles restrict downloads.
In general, laptops or tablets with larger screens are easier to use for longer projects.
Shared and managed devices
On shared computers:
- Students should export work before logging out
- Browser data may be cleared automatically
- Unsaved work may be lost
Do not rely on browser storage on shared systems. Exporting is essential.
Network and filtering considerations
Brush Ninja needs access to the main website and the ability to download files.
If the site does not load or exporting does not work, check web filters, firewall rules, and proxy settings. Some filtering systems block canvas features or downloads by default.
Storage and downloads
Student work is saved as files on the device being used.
Make sure downloads are allowed, the Downloads folder is accessible, and students know where their files are saved. On cloud-based systems, students may need to move files from Downloads into their usual storage locations.
Performance guidelines
For smooth performance, it helps to keep animations relatively simple. Very large canvas sizes or long animations with many frames can slow down older devices.
Closing unused browser tabs and restarting slow devices can also help. Simple projects usually run well, even on modest hardware.
More optimisation tips are available in the Performance Guide.
Accessibility and input devices
Brush Ninja supports keyboard navigation, screen readers, high contrast modes, and a range of input methods including mouse, touch, and stylus.
If students use assistive technology, it is a good idea to test activities early and adjust tasks as needed. Some tools may be easier to use than others depending on individual requirements.
Brush Ninja has an accessibility statement and has undergone a VPAT review.
Download the Brush Ninja VPAT (PDF)
Pre-lesson technical checklist
Before running a lesson, it is worth checking a few basics. Make sure the site loads on all devices, browsers are up to date, downloads are enabled, and at least one test export works.
Spending a few minutes checking this can save an entire lesson.
Common problems and fixes
- “The page is blank.”: Refresh the browser. Check filters. Try another browser.
- “Buttons are missing.”: Update the browser. Zoom out to 100%.
- “It won’t save.”: Check download permissions and folder access.
- “It’s very slow.”: Reduce frames. Close tabs. Restart device.
- “Touch drawing is inaccurate.”: Zoom in. Use a stylus if available.
When to contact school IT support
You may need help from IT staff if downloads are blocked, local storage is disabled, the site is filtered, or student profiles reset frequently.
Sharing this guide with technical staff can help resolve issues more quickly.
Extensions and next steps
Once devices are working smoothly, it becomes easier to run longer projects, introduce starter files, use shared folders, or try more collaborative activities.
Stable devices make everything else simpler.
