Tips for keeping Java Free of Trouble

WebCT 6 makes extensive use of Java. The following steps can help provide you with an enjoyable experience as you use the many fine features of WebCT 6 In order to ensure this it is essential that Java has been installed correctly on your computer.

These tips should help you troubleshoot your JRE installation If you have problems and think Java may be causing the problem, we recommend that you remove your current version of Java and make a new installation.

So,

  1. check your browser setting

  2. check your version of Java, and, if you still have trouble

  3. remove your current version of Java and reinstall the correct version


Checking the Browser and Plugin Settings for the JRE

1. Your browser should be one of the following:

  • Netscape 7.x for Windows
  • Internet Explorer 6 for Windows
  • Safari for Mac OS X

Here are directions for Windows. We recommend that you use Internet Explorer 6 for Windows. Here is how you check that browser settings for Java:

Step A

Click on the Tools menu and select Internet Options .

Step B

Click on the Advanced tab.

Step C

Scroll down to the Java (Sun) heading in the list. Make sure that the box next to Use Java 2 v.1.4.2xxx is checked.


2. Check your Version of Java Plugin for Windows

Step A

Select Control Panel from the Start Menu .

Step B

In the upper-left of the Control Panel window, click on Switch to Classic View .

Step C

Open the item named Java.

Step D

Click on the Browser tab.

Step E

Make sure that you have a check in the box next to Internet Explorer (or the browser you will be using with WebCT 6)

3. Remove all versions of Java and Install the correct version. (Java doesn't run well if you have more than one version or more than one copy of the same version on your computer.)

If you do not have Administrative privileges on your computer, you probably won't be able to do this. Someone in IT will be glad to help you with this.

Step A

Go to the control Panel (see above) and click on the "Add or Remove Programs" icon.

Step B

Select any and all Java programs and remove them, one at a time.

Step C

Click here and obtain the recommended version of Java, Java 1.4.2. Run it, selecting the default settings. You probably will have to restart your computer for the new installation to start working.