Q: Which browser should I use?

A: We have designed these courses to work in both Internet Explorer and Firefox.  If you have no preference, we recommend using Internet Explorer.

Q: Does it matter which version I use?

A: Yes.  To ensure that the multimedia runs properly, you should be using at least Internet Explorer 7.0, Firefox 3.6,  To determine your version, on your browser go to the Help drop-down menu and check "About Internet Explorer" or "About Firefox".

Q: To view the multimedia, what type of computer do I need?

A: For minimum computer requirements, see the Computer Checklist.

Q: Whenever I try to view an example, I get the error "Cannot connect to server" or "Unable to establish connection to server."

A: Several situations may cause this.  The most common is that you are behind a firewall, which is preventing the media from sending information to your computer.  Check to see if your company has a firewall.  If it does, before you will be able to view the media, your Network Manager will have to modify it.

Q: I can go to the example, but the picture is not clear or the presentation runs slowly.

A: Your computer or net congestion may be to blame.

A slow connection to the internet or a slow processor in your computer can adversely affect the running of videos or slideshows.  If your computer does not meet or barely meets the minimum requirements (see Computer Checklist), you may not be able to view the animation.   Also, "net congestion" at your Internet Service Provider or the site may occur during peak use and affect your ability to view animation.  If you seem to have everything else set up properly, we suggest you try logging in at a different time.

Q: What is Flash?

A: Flash is an easy-to-use, multi-media application that gives the viewer access to animation, audio, and other media.

Q: How can I tell if Flash is on my computer?

A: Flash is not installed on your computer; it is a component within your internet browser.  If you have Internet Explorer 7.0, Firefox 3.6, Flash is already there working for you.  If you have an older browser, you may have to update it, but we can do that for you right now in about 60 seconds.  Click here to update:  Internet Explorer and Firefox.

Q: Do I have to pay for Flash?

A: No. Flash is free.

Q: What are the system requirements for Flash?

A: To view the system requirements for Flash for both Windows and MAC, go to Flash System Requirements.

Q: What do I do if my password does not work or I forget it?

A: Send an e-mail to the Help Desk at online@niu.edu.

Q: When I try to log in the first time, I get an error message that says, "You have either logged in incorrectly or your session has timed out."

A: This is usually because your browser is set for not allowing cookies.

In Internet Explorer, go to Internet Options, Privacy, change the setting to "Medium." in the "Settings" section.

In Firefox, go to Tools, Options, Privacy and in "History" select "Accept cookies from sites."

Q: What computer capabilities and software do I need?

A: Hardware & Software: To ensure your experience with us is rewarding, you will need to have some minimum software and hardware installed on your computer.