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Can I access the EDC/CDMS system from anywhere? What internet browsers do you support?

Updated

Castor EDC/CDMS is a secure, cloud-based application that can be accessed from anywhere using your Castor login credentials and an internet connection.

To ensure system security, regulatory compliance, data integrity, and optimal performance, Castor enforces a Browser and Operating System Support Policy. It is important to keep your browser and operating system up to date to maintain access to platform features and benefit from the latest security patches.

Supported Web Browsers

Castor supports the following browser configurations across participant- and clinician-facing interfaces:

1. Participant-Facing Functionality (Surveys, ePRO, eConsent, Televisits)

  • Chromium-Based Browsers:
    • Google Chrome: Latest 12 major versions
    • Microsoft Edge: Latest 12 major versions
    • Samsung Internet Browser: Current major version
    • Note: While participants may access the platform via other Chromium-based browsers, optimal performance and security are not guaranteed.
  • Non-Chromium-Based Browsers:
    • Safari (iOS, iPadOS, macOS – WebKit-based): Current and previous major version
    • Mozilla Firefox (Gecko-based): Latest 12 major versions (desktop only)
    • Note: While users may access surveys via Firefox on mobile devices, performance and layout consistency are not guaranteed.

2. Clinician-Facing Functionality (Study Management, Data Entry, Monitoring, Form Builder)

  • Chromium-Based Browsers:
    • Google Chrome: Latest 12 major versions
    • Microsoft Edge: Latest 12 major versions
  • Non-Chromium-Based Browsers:
    • Mozilla Firefox: Latest 12 major versions (desktop)
    • Safari (macOS): Current and previous major version
  • Note: Newly released browser versions are assumed to be forward-compatible. Clinician workflows are designed primarily for desktop use, though select views and forms are responsive for tablet access.

Supported Operating Systems

To prevent data entry discrepancies and security vulnerabilities, Castor verifies operating system compatibility:

  • Desktop OS:
    • Windows: Versions actively supported by Microsoft (Windows 10 and newer)
    • macOS: Current and previous two major versions (last 3 major versions)
    • Linux: Supported as an exception for development, technical troubleshooting, and advanced users (performance/UI consistency not formally guaranteed).
  • Mobile OS (Web & Native Browsers):
    • Apple iOS / iPadOS: Current and previous major version
    • Android: Latest four major versions

(Note: For Castor Connect native mobile app requirements, please consult the specific Castor Connect Release Notes and System Requirements).

Unsupported Browsers and Operating Systems (Automated Blocking)

In line with Castor’s system validation and data integrity standards:

  • System Blocking: If you attempt to access Castor EDC/CDMS using an unsupported browser or an outdated operating system, access will be blocked automatically.
  • Upgrade Prompt: Affected users will receive an on-screen prompt instructing them to update their current browser/OS or switch to an alternate supported browser.
  • End-of-Life (EOL): When a browser or operating system vendor ceases official support or security patches for a platform version, Castor discontinues support simultaneously.

Security Protocols & Encryption

  • TLS 1.2+ Requirement: Castor strictly requires Transport Layer Security (TLS) version 1.2 or higher. Support for TLS 1.0 and 1.1 was permanently removed in release 2018.6.
  • Browsers lacking modern TLS 1.2+ cipher suites cannot establish a secure connection with Castor servers. You can verify your browser’s encryption capabilities by visiting How’s My SSL.

Further Information

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