Check Browser

Definition:

The browser check will ensure your browser is configured so the complete functionality of this application is available to you. For each area checked, mandatory or recommended changes are recommended if deficiencies are discovered.

The Report

The Check Browser link is available on the WebCT login page and the MyWebCT page. In addition to this, depending on the configuration of the WebCT system, automatic checks take place when you enter certain areas of the WebCT system. The following checks are made: Browser Check, Cookies Check, Javascript Check, Pop-up Window Check, Java™ Check. If the computer and web system appear to be appropriate for WebCT, the "Success" sign is given: Otherwise, the "Fail" sign is given: Each check is accompanied with a description of your configuration. At the bottom of the page is a list of other resources (in the form of web links:

Other Resources

You may also want to review the other browser resources available on www.webct.com/tuneup

• Step-by-step instructions to properly configure your browser
• List of supported browsers
• Troubleshooting browser problems
• Check your system for plug-ins that may be required to view course content

JAVA Installation

If you need to update or install the proper Java on your system, the instructions in the above link will take you through that process, but here are a few points that may help in the process. Note that the Java installation comes from Sun Microsystems and may vary over time. These instructions should reflect the basic process:

If you get a red x in the place of the My Computer icon, you may need to upgrade your Java.
Special Note: Sometimes even when you have the correct version of Java on your system, the best way to fix problems, especially browser crashes, is to re-install the Java.

The browser checker Java Link takes you to a confusing place and the download of the Java update code either doesn't work or is too confusing to use. Here is what we have found to be the best for Windows Java updates:

• Go to www.java.com
• Click on the Manual Download option (under the larger Download Now link)
• Click on the first item in the list (on [Download]): Windows (Online Installation) [Download]
• Open the downloaded .exe file and follow the instructions.
• If you still have problems, you may have to go into Windows settings and remove older versions of Java. Currently if you are running Java 1.5.0_06, _07, and _08 work fine. If you are running the updated Java which is 1.5. 0_09 or _10 they do not work well and the My Computer Aplet will not work correctly. To see what version you have go to your Control Panel and click on Java. Click on the Java tab and then under Application Runtime Settings will see the list. If you have _09 or _10, uncheck those boxes and Save.

Note: Alternate links for Macintosh operating systems:

* For Mac OS X, download and install the latest version of Java for Mac OS X.
* For Mac OS 9 and earlier, download and install the MRJ 2.2.5

For Macintosh Systems (OSX), the best option is to do the standard System Update which will bring in the latest Java into your system.

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February 14, 2007 -JFB