Technical Issues Regarding Web Browsers and PlugIns/Software Answers

Do I need to activate/download any specific things on my computer?

Yes. You may have to get your computer ready for online learning. This is an easy process. First, see Important Note above. Then, in your Web Browser (i.e., Internet Explore, Netscape, etc.) you may also need to activate (configure) the following:

1. Cookies
2. Pop-up Blocker
3. Screen Resolution
4. Audio On/Off

You may also need to download software.

1. Acrobat Reader

Note: Please read Important Note which pertains to downloading software.

What are Cookies?

A cookie is a bit of data that is stored on a computer to save some information. A web server uses the cookie to make your experience at a web site more enjoyable (by remembering your user name, favorite settings, etc.).

Why are Cookies required?

Our online learning courses require that cookies be turned on in order to use the courses. The primary use of this cookie for online learning is to 'remember' where you left off in your course (so that you don't have to take the same lesson over and over again).

How do I accept/enable cookies on my computer?

The instruction for enabling cookies varies depending on what browser (and browser version) you are using. To find out what browser version of Internet Explorer or Netscape you have, follow the steps listed below. (If you know your computer's browser version go to enable cookies.)

If you don't know your computer's browser version:

1. Connect to the Internet and click on either the Internet Explorer icon or the Netscape icon to start your browser.
2. Once your Home Page opens, click on the Help button on the menu bar at the top.
3. Next click on the About Internet Explorer (or About Netscape). The version of browser you are using will be listed here.

Internet Explorer 5. x
Internet Explorer 6.x
Netscape 6.x
Netscape 7.x

To enable cookies for Internet Explorer 5.x:

1. Select Internet Options from the Tools menu.
2. Click on the Security tab and then on Custom Level button.
3. Scroll down to the Cookies option, and select one of the choices presented.
4. Click the OK button to finish.

To enable cookies for Internet Explorer 6.x:

1. Select Internet Options from the Tools menu.
2. Click on the Privacy tab and then click the Advanced button.
3. In the Advanced Privacy Settings window, check the box marked Override automatic cookie handling, and then select one of the choices presented.
4. Click the OK button to close the window.
5. Click the OK button to finish.

To enable cookies for Netscape 6.x:

1. Select Preferences from the Edit menu.
2. Open the Privacy & Security category in the Preferences window. You can do this by double-clicking on Privacy & Security.
3. A list of options will drop down. Select the Cookies subcategory.
4. Select the option labeled Enable all cookies on the right.
5. If you wish to be warned before a cookie is stored, check the box beside Warn me before storing a cookie.
6. Click the OK button to finish.

To enable cookies for Netscape7.x:

1. Select Preferences from the Edit menu.
2. Select the Privacy & Security category in the Preferences window. You can do this by double-clicking on Privacy & Security.
3. A list of options will display. Select the Cookies subcategory.
4. Select one of the options below:

• Enable cookies from the originating web site means Netscape will reject cookies coming from web sites other than the one you are currently viewing (called "foreign cookies").
• Enable cookies based on privacy settings allows you more control over when you accept or reject cookies. To modify Netscape's settings for accepting and rejecting cookies with this option, click the View button.
• Enable all cookies means Netscape will accept all cookies.

Pop-up Blocker

Do I have to turn off the Pop-up Blocker on my computer?

Yes. Pop-ups are windows that open on their own when you visit a web site. We require pop-ups to be enabled (that is, your Pop-up blocker must be turned off) because our courses run in a Pop-up window.

How do I use a Pop-up Blocker?

You may have a pop-up blocker installed of your computer. Pop-up blockers can block annoying windows that open on their own when you visit a web site, but they can also block useful windows, such as the ones we use to play our online courses.

Many web browsers (e.g. Internet Explorer, Netscape) have built-in pop-up blockers. You must turn them off from within the browser. You can also purchase separate pop-up blocker software. You must use the manufacturer's software to turn off/on pop-up blocking for these programs.

Some pop-up blockers permit you to allow pop-ups from a particular web site. This allows you to permit helpful pop-ups from web sites such as ours, but prevents them from other web sites.

The SkillSoft Browser Test can also determine if you have a pop-up blocker running. To use this tool go to: http://browser.skillport.com/bh/default.asp.

Turn off pop-up blocker in Internet Explorer:

1. From within Internet Explorer, choose Tools, Pop-up Blocker.
   
2. Turn off Pop-up Blocker.

Turn off pop-up blocker in Netscape

1. From within Netscape choose Tools, Security Center.
2. Click on Pop-up Blocking and disable the blocker.

Screen Resolution

What is Screen Resolution?

The screen resolution of your monitor (display) signifies the number of dots (pixels) on the entire screen. Resolution refers to the sharpness and clarity of an image.

Why can’t I see everything on the screen (e.g. text, buttons) without scrolling right to left and top to bottom?

The screen resolution determines the virtual size of your computer screen. Improper settings can distort images and limit your view of the content. To change your screen resolution:

1. Right-click on your desktop and click on Properties.
2. Select the Settings tab on the Display Properties dialogue box (see below for example). Look at the Screen Resolution. Move the slider until the screen area is set to an acceptable viewing area for you. This setting should be at least 1024 by 768 pixels.
3. Click on the OK button.
   

Audio On/Off

How do I enable/disable Audio while in the course?

Disable Audio

1. Start your course.
2. At the bottom of the screen click on the Turn Audio Off button.

Enable Audio

1. Start your course.
2. At the bottom of the screen click on the Turn Audio On button.
   
3. If Audio is still not heard click on the 'horn' icon in the system tray of your computer, at the bottom right.
4. Increase the volume or un-mute the volume.
5. If problem persists, click on Start, Setup, Control Panel.
6. Open Sounds and Multimedia (or Sounds and Audio devices).
7. Click on the Audio tab.
8. Choose an alternative device for "sound playback".
9. Click OK.

Acrobat Reader

Why do I need Adobe Acrobat Reader?

Adobe Acrobat Reader is used to view and print some of the files and resources that are available in courses.

How do I install Adobe Acrobat Reader to my computer? (Free)

Go to: http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html and click on the Continue Button to download the reader software.