If you are problems using or accessing Blackboard, there may be a problem with your browser or other software on your computer.

First, check and configure your browser using the Browser Tester above. Then, read the following tips and troubleshooting information.

General Tips

• Spyware and Deceptive Software
• Try Using a Different Browser
• Check Your Computer for Viruses
• Keep Your Microsoft Windows Software Updated
  

Spyware and Deceptive Software | Top

Spyware, parasites, and other deceptive software can cause problems when using any web-based program. We recommend that you check for these types of software, then uninstall or temporarily disable them.

To check your browser for spyware, parasites, and other deceptive software and for more detailed information, visit the Doxdesk page on parasites:
http://www.doxdesk.com/parasite

To help control the types of unwanted Internet programs that could run on your computer, you can download and install a spyware detection and removal utility, such as:

• Lavasoft Ad-aware, and/or
• Spybot - Search & Destroy from PepiMK Software

For more information, see Microsoft's page about Spyware and Unwanted Software.

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Try Using a Different Browser| Top

Most spyware and deceptive software affects only Microsoft Internet Explorer. If you have many problems with Internet Explorer, using a different web browser may be a suitable workaround.

Other Browsers can be downloaded here:

Firefox
Netscape 7.2
Netscape - earlier versions
Mozilla
Safari (MacIntosh only)

If you connect through America On Line, do not use the AOL browser. Close it and open another, perhaps Internet Explorer.

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Check Your Computer for Viruses | Top

Viruses can cause many problems with your computer. If your computer is infected with a virus, you may have trouble using Blackboard.

Scan your computer to check for viruses. If you do not have a virus checker, it is strongly recommended that you get one and install it.

Two examples of well-known anti-virus programs are McAfee VirusScan and Symantec's Norton AntiVirus. Each of these companies also offer free scanning services:

• McAfee FreeScan and other services
• Symantec Security Check

Be aware that anti-virus programs may interfere with your ability to log in to Blackboard. You may have to disable the Privacy function of your virus protection program when using Blackboard

Microsoft Support maintains a list of antivirus-software vendors.

For more information about security:

• Macintosh users, see Apple Product Security.
• Microsoft Windows users, see Microsoft's Protect Your PC site.

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Keep Your Microsoft Windows Software Updated | Top

If you are using Microsoft Windows operating system, to prevent malicious programs from taking advantage of known security holes, make sure you have the latest updates from Microsoft:

1. In Internet Explorer, from the Tools menu, select Windows Update.
2. Follow the online instructions.

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