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2. Browser

A browser is a software program that sends a request for information to another computer, usually a Web server. The browser interprets the information it receives, then displays it in a way the viewer can understand. This piece of software is required to access Blackboard and your online courses.

Note: Some Internet service providers, such as America Online (AOL) or CompuServe, provide their users with 'customized' versions of a browser. Because of the way that these browsers use JavaScript, they are not compatible with some of our online courses.

Recommended: Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or above

If you choose, you can use Netscape Navigator: 4.5x, 4.6x, but be aware that there are known problems associated with accessing material in your Blackboard course with Netscape.

You will want to be sure that your computer’s settings are optimized for running an online course. This means that you will need to enable Java, set the cache to reload every time and enable cookies. It is also recommended that you disable or turn off any web accelerator software associated with your Internet Service Provider when logging into Blackboard.



BROSWER TIPS

Enable Java - (used for Virtual Classrooms)
Netscape 4.5 and higher
  • Select Edit --> Preferences
  • Select Advanced
  • Make sure the Enable Java and Enable JavaScript boxes are checked
  • Click OK
Internet Explorer 5.0 and higher
  • Select Tools --> Internet Options
  • Select Advanced Tab
  • Locate Microsoft VM
  • Make sure the Java console is enabled and Java logging enabled boxes are checked
  • Click OK
  • Restart your computer if you checked the Java console enabled box
Caching - (ensure you receive the most current version of the page)
Netscape 4.5 and higher
  • Select Edit --> Preferences
  • Click the + sign located next to Advanced to see more options
  • Click the Every Time radio button at the bottom
  • Click OK
Internet Explorer 5.0 and higher
  • Select Tools --> Internet Options
  • Select General Tab
  • Select Settings from Temporary Internet Files Section
  • Select Every Visit to the Page radio button
  • Click OK
Cookies Enabling - (allows Bb to remember you login information)
Netscape 4.5 and higher
  • Select Tools --> Cookie Manager
  • If available, select unblock 'cookies from this site'
Internet Explorer 5.0 and higher
  • Select Tools --> Internet Options
  • Select the Privacy Tab
  • Select Advanced button
  • Click "Allow Session Cookies"
  • Click OK


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