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Online Technical Manual

Microsoft Internet Explorer browser

The CCRA provides this information as a service and is not responsible for any difficulties or problems in downloading and installing the software.

Technical support is provided by the software suppliers. The availability and means of downloading the 128-bit encrypting browsers are changing daily. We encourage you to check with Microsoft for the current status, procedures, and frequently asked questions.

For Windows users

For Macintosh users

For Windows users

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How to download Microsoft Internet Explorer

  • File size (for Windows 9x/NT): 17 MB

You can download a freeware version of Microsoft Internet Explorer Extra Security 128-bit browser. Before starting, take a moment and read the following instructions to help you download, install, and configure your browser. We suggest that you print this page and keep it with you while navigating through the Microsoft download site.

Available drive space

To make sure that you have enough drive space on your hard drive, double-click on the My Computer icon on your desktop. Highlight the drive where you wish to install the browser (e.g., C:) by single-clicking on the drive. Now, click File from the menu bar and choose Properties.

Minimum system requirements

  • Intel or compatible 486DX/66 MHz processor or higher
  • Microsoft Windows 9x/NT
  • 16 MB of RAM or higher (32 MB for NT)
  • 28,800-baud modem or faster

Easy steps for downloading

Once you're on the Microsoft Web site, follow the instructions on its download page.

After you finish downloading, you can access our installation instructions or our instructions for confirming that the 128-bit security is active. You can also consult with Microsoft, if you have any problems.

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How to install your browser

As you download your 128-bit Explorer, be sure to note the folder into which you're downloading the software. You are downloading only an installer. Whenever you run the installer, it will download and install the rest of Internet Explorer's components.

To find the folder in which the file was downloaded, click on the Start button at the bottom-left corner of your screen. Then click on Programs and then on Windows Explorer to browse.

When you find the file, double-click on it. This will start an installer to guide you through the rest of the download process.

In the installer, you'll see a series of set-up screens. Be sure to carefully read and follow the instructions on each screen. You'll be asked to read and agree to a licence agreement, choose a location in which to install the software, and choose or create the folder name for the program.

If you install your new software in the Internet Explorer folder that contains your current version of the product, your old version will be overwritten, but you can still use your existing bookmarks, preferences, and settings. If you would like to keep a copy of the old version as a back-up, simply create a new folder for the software you're about to install.

Once you see the prompt telling you that installation is complete, go to the folder where you installed your new software. Double-click on the Internet Explorer application icon to launch your new browser.

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Check security parameters (128-bit)

To check that you properly installed the 128-bit version of Explorer, follow these easy steps.

  1. Click on Help in the menu bar located at the top of your browser.
  2. Choose About Internet Explorer.
  3. Under the logo it will read Cipher strength: 128-bit supported.

You can test the encryption of your browser on the Browser Security page.

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How to turn Java applets and JavaScript on

To check that you properly turn on Java applets and JavaScript, follow these easy steps.

If you use Internet Explorer 4.x

  1. Select Internet Options under the View menu.
  2. Click the Security tab.
  3. Click the Internet zone.
  4. Click the Custom Level button.
  5. Scroll down the list until you find Microsoft VM.
    • Under Java Permissions, make sure that High security is selected.
  6. Scroll down the list until you find Scripting.
    • Under Scripting of Java applets, make sure that Enable is selected.
  7. Click on OK to return to your browser.

If you use Internet Explorer 5.x

  1. Select Internet Options under the Tools menu.
  2. Click the Security tab.
  3. Click the Internet zone.
  4. Click the Custom Level button.
  5. Scroll down the list until you find Microsoft VM.
    • Under Java Permissions, make sure that High security is selected.
  6. Scroll down the list until you find Scripting.
    • Under Scripting of Java applets, make sure that Enable is selected.
  7. Click on OK to return to your browser.

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How to clear your browser's cache

If you use Internet Explorer 4.x

Internet Explorer 4.x's "internet options dialog"

  1. Select Internet Options under the View menu.
  2. Click on the General tab.
  3. Click on the Delete Files button in the Temporary Internet Files section.
  4. Click on OK to return to your browser.

If you use Internet Explorer 5.x

Internet Explorer 5.x's "internet options dialog"

  1. Select Internet Options under the Tools menu.
  2. Click on the General tab.
  3. Click on the Delete Files button in the Temporary Internet Files section.
  4. Click on OK to return to your browser.

For Macintosh users

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How to download Microsoft Internet Explorer

  • File size: 15 MB

You can download a freeware version of Microsoft Internet Explorer Extra Security 128-bit browser. Before starting, take a moment and read the following instructions to help you download, install, and configure your browser. We suggest that you print this page and keep it with you while navigating through the Microsoft download site.

Available Drive Space

To make sure that you have enough drive space on your hard-drive, double-click on the hard-disk icon on your desktop. The folder window shows how much free space you have.

Minimum system requirements

  • Power PC
  • Mac OS 7.6 or later
  • 8 MB of RAM with Virtual Memory on or higher (12 MB recommended)
  • 28,800-baud modem or faster

Easy steps for downloading

There are two options for downloading files: MacBinary (.bin) or Binhex (.hqx). The MacBinary version gives you a faster download, although sometimes Web browsers or servers are not configured for it.

As a general rule, if you are using a browser that is version 4.0 or higher, Microsoft recommends that you use the MacBinary format when downloading. If you are using a browser that is version 3.0 or lower, they recommend that you use the Binhex format when downloading. If you download the MacBinary file and experience problems, you can download the Binhex version (a larger, less compressed file) instead. The software is the same in both MacBinary and Binhex.

After the download is complete, a .bin or .hqx file will appear on your desktop. Use your decompression program to decompress and decode the file. If you have installed Stuffit Expander (you can obtain a copy by visiting http://www.aladdinsys.com), you will only need to drag the file onto the Expander icon, and the file will unstuff to reveal an installer icon. If you are running Internet Explorer 3.0 or later, the file will decompress automatically.

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How to install your browser

  1. Double-click the Installer icon.
  2. Read the End User License Agreement and click Accept.
  3. By default, the installer window is set to Easy Install and the hard-drive is the start-up drive where your System Folder resides. If you wish to a custom install, select Custom Install then select the components you wish to install.
  4. If you wish to install on a hard-drive other than your start-up drive, click the Switch disk button until the hard-drive you wish to install appears.
  5. Then click install and the Installer will install a new Internet Explorer folder on your hard-drive.
  6. If you wish to remove an older version of Internet Explorer, you can simply drag the older folder to the Trash. You still will be able use your existing bookmarks, preferences, and settings, as they are kept in the Preference Folder in your System Folder.
  7. Once the software has been installed, restart your Macintosh.
  8. After you restart your computer, go to the folder where you installed your new software.
  9. Double-click the Internet Explorer icon to launch your new browser.

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Check security parameters (128-bit)

To check that you properly installed the 128-bit version of Explorer, follow these easy steps.

  1. Under the Apple Menu select About Internet Explorer.
  2. Click the Support button.
  3. In the Support Information window, encryption should read 128-bit.

You can test the encryption of your browser on the Browser Security page.

Back to top

How to turn Java applets and JavaScript on

To check that you properly turn on Java applets and JavaScript, follow these easy steps.

If you use Internet Explorer 4.x

  1. Select Preferences under the Edit menu.
  2. Click on Java.
  3. Click on Enable Java (Apple MRJ).
  4. Click on OK to return to your browser.

If you use Internet Explorer 5.x

  1. Select Preferences under the Edit menu.
  2. Click on Java.
  3. Click on Enable Java (Apple MRJ).
  4. Click on OK to return to your browser.

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How to clear your browser's cache

If you use Internet Explorer 4.x

Internet Explorer 4.x's "internet options dialog"

  1. Select Preferences under the Edit menu.
  2. Click on Advanced.
  3. Click on the Empty Now button to clear the cache.
  4. Click on OK to return to your browser.

If you use Internet Explorer 5.x

Internet Explorer 4.x's "internet options dialog"

  1. Select Preferences under the Edit menu.
  2. Click on Advanced.
  3. Click on the Empty Now button to clear the cache.
  4. Click on OK to return to your browser.


Netscape browser

The CCRA provides this information as a service and is not responsible for any difficulties or problems in downloading and installing the software.

Technical support is provided by the software suppliers. The availability and means of downloading the 128-bit encrypting browsers are changing daily. We encourage you to check with Netscape for the current status, procedures, and frequently asked questions.

For Windows users

For Macintosh users

For Windows users

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How to download Navigator and Communicator

  • File size: 19 MB

You can download freeware versions of Netscape Communicator and Netscape Navigator. Before starting, take a moment and read the following instructions to help you download, install, and configure your browser. We suggest you print this page and keep it with you while navigating through the Netscape download site.

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Available drive space

To make sure that you have enough drive space on your hard drive, double-click on the My Computer icon on your desktop. Highlight the drive where you wish to install the browser (e.g., C:) by single-clicking on the drive. Now, click File from the menu bar and choose Properties.

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System requirements

  • Intel or compatible 486 processor or higher
  • Microsoft Windows 9x/NT
  • 16 MB of RAM or higher
  • 28,800-baud modem or faster

Back to top

Easy steps for downloading

The Netscape download site can identify which browser and version you're using, and it will automatically suggest that you download the latest version of Communicator for free.

Once you're on the Netscape Web site, follow these easy steps.

  1. Scroll down and click the Netscape Communicator link.
  2. Choose your language.
  3. Choose your operating system.
  4. Choose the version you wish to download. We recommend you download the latest version.
  5. Click the link labeled complete.
  6. Review your selection and click the Download Now button.
  7. Your download will start automatically.
  8. Specify where you want to save the file on your PC C:\downloads\ or on your Macintosh Macintosh HD or Desktop.

After you finish downloading, you can access our installation instructions or our instructions for configuring your browser to 128-bit maximum security. You can also consult with Netscape, if you have any problems.

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How to install your browser

As you download Communicator, be sure to note the folder into which you're downloading the software.

To find the folder in which the file was downloaded, click on the Start button at the bottom-left corner of your screen. Then click on Programs and then on Windows Explorer to browse.

When you find the file, double-click on it. You'll be taken to the installer program.

In the installer, you'll see a series of set-up screens. Be sure to carefully read and follow the instructions on each screen. You'll be asked to: read and agree to a licence agreement, choose a location in which to install the software, and choose or create the folder name for the program.

If you install your new software in the folder that contains your current version of the product, your old version will be overwritten, but you can still use your existing bookmarks, preferences, and settings. If you wish to keep a copy of the old version as a back-up, simply create a new folder for the software you're about to install.

Once you see the prompt telling you that installation is complete, go to the folder where you installed your new software. Double-click on the Communicator application icon to launch your new browser.

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Configure your browser for maximum security (128-bit)

The version of Netscape Communicator you just downloaded is already operating with 128-bit encryption capability. To make sure all the settings are correct, take a moment to verify it.

In Navigator

  1. Click on C on the menu bar located at the top of your browser.
  2. Click on Security Info.
  3. Choose Navigator.
  4. Scroll down until you see Configure SSL v2 and Configure SSL v3.
  5. Make sure the tick boxes are enabled.
  6. Click on Configure SSL v2.
  7. Make sure the two tick boxes for 40-bit encryption are enabled.
  8. Click OK.
  9. Click on Configure SSL v3. Make sure all boxes are ticked except for the box that says: No encryption with an MD-5 MAC.
  10. Click OK.

In Communicator

  1. Click on Communicator on the menu bar located at the top of your browser.
  2. Click on Tools then Security Info.
  3. Choose Navigator.
  4. Scroll down until you see Configure SSL v2 and Configure SSL v3.
  5. Make sure the tick boxes are enabled.
  6. Click on Configure SSL v2. Make sure the two tick boxes for 40-bit encryption are enabled.
  7. Click OK.
  8. Click on Configure SSL v3.
  9. Make sure all boxes are ticked except for the box that says: No encryption with an MD-5 MAC.
  10. Click OK.

You can always verify the status of the encryption session you're in by looking at the bottom-left corner of the browser.

  • netscape lock unlocked indicates an unencrypted session.
  • netscape lock locked indicates an encrypted session (40-bit or 128-bit).

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How to turn Java applets and JavaScript on

By default Java applets and JavaScript are turned on.To make sure all the settings are correct, take a moment to verify it.

  1. Select Preferences from the Edit menu.
  2. Click on Advanced.
  3. Verify that the Enable Java and Enable JavaScript checkboxes are checked.

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How to clear your browser's cache

If you use Navigator 4.x

Netscape Communicator 4.x's "preferences dialog"

  1. Select Preferences from the Edit menu.
  2. Double-click on Advanced until the Cache, Proxies, and Disk Space subcategories are displayed.
  3. Click on the Cache subcategory.
  4. Click on Clear Memory Cache and then click on OK to remove all the files currently in your memory cache.
    Note
    Clear Memory Cache Now is not available on Macintosh systems.
  5. Click on Clear Disk Cache and then click on OK to remove all the files currently in your disk cache.
  6. Click on OK to return to your browser.

If you use Navigator 6.x

Netscape Communicator 6.x's "preferences dialog"

  1. Select Preferences from the Edit menu.
  2. Double-click on Advanced until the Cache, Proxies, and Disk Space subcategories are displayed.
  3. Click on the Cache subcategory.
  4. Click on Clear Memory Cache and then click on OK to remove all the files currently in your memory cache.
    Note
    Clear Memory Cache Now is not available on Macintosh systems.
  5. Click on Clear Disk Cache and then click on OK to remove all the files currently in your disk cache.
  6. Click on OK to return to your browser.

For Macintosh users

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How to download Navigator and Communicator

  • File size: 19 MB

You can download freeware versions of Netscape Communicator and Netscape Navigator. Before starting, take a moment and read the following instructions to help you download, install, and configure your browser. We suggest you print this page and keep it with you while navigating through the Netscape download site.

Back to top

Available drive space

To make sure that you have enough drive space on your hard drive, double-click on the hard drive icon on your desktop. The folder window indicates you how much free space you have.

Back to top

System requirements

  • Power PC
  • Mac OS 7.6 or later
  • 16 MB of RAM or more
  • 28,800-baud modem or faster

Back to top

Easy steps for downloading

The Netscape download site can identify which browser and version you're using, and it will automatically suggest that you download the latest version of Communicator for free.

Once you're on the Netscape Web site, follow these easy steps.

  1. Scroll down and click the Netscape Communicator link.
  2. Choose your language.
  3. Choose your operating system.
  4. Choose the version you wish to download. We recommend you download the latest version.
  5. Review your selection and click the Download Now button.
  6. Your download will start automatically.
  7. Specify where you want to save the file on your PC C:\downloads\ or on your Macintosh Macintosh HD or Desktop.

After you finish downloading, you can access our installation instructions or our instructions for configuring your browser to 128-bit maximum security. You can also consult with Netscape, if you have any problems.

Back to top

How to install your browser

Open the new folder and double-click the Installer icon or the Start Here icon. Click Continue if you see a Netscape splash screen with a Continue button. Read the instructions on each screen. The screens vary depending on what you're installing, but in general you are asked to do some or all of the following:

  1. Read and accept a licence agreement. If you decline, installation will not continue.
  2. Choose a type of installation, such as Recommended or Easy.
  3. If you wish to a custom install, select Custom Install then select the components you wish to install.
  4. If you wish to install on a hard drive other than your Start-up drive, click the Switch disk button until the hard drive you wish to install appears.
  5. Then click install and the Installer will install a new Netscape folder on your hard drive. If you wish to remove an older version of Netscape, you can simply drag the older folder to Trash. You still will be able use your existing bookmarks, preferences, and settings, as they are kept in the Preference Folder in your System Folder.
  6. Once the software has been installed, restart your Macintosh.
  7. Choose preferences, including specifying that you want Netscape to be your default browser. This means that Netscape will open automatically when you double-click files that can be displayed through a browser.
  8. When you see the prompt telling you that installation is complete, restart your computer. After you restart your computer, go to the folder where you installed your new software. Double-click the Navigator or Communicator icon to launch your new browser.

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Configure your browser for maximum security (128-bit)

The instructions for Windows users on how to configure your browser for maximum security can be used, as both the Windows and Macintosh versions of the Netscape browsers are very similar. Where there are important differences, a Note will indicate the difference.

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How to turn Java applets and JavaScript on

The instructions for Windows users on how to verify that Java applets and Javascript are turned on can be used, as both the Windows and Macintosh versions of the Netscape browsers are very similar. Where there are important differences, a Note will indicate the difference.

Back to top

How to clear your browser's cache

The instructions for Windows users on how to clear your browser's cache can be used, as the Windows and Macintosh versions of the Netscape browsers are very similar. Where there are important differences, a Note will indicate the difference.



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Updated: 2002-06-03 Back to top Important notices