Setting up your browser to use databases
Most databases require the use of cookies and many also need javascript and pop-up windows enabled on your browser. Some databases may return security alerts. Check your browser help for instructions on how to apply the following steps.
Steps to take include:
a) Deleting the cache
Your browser might be caching a failed access attempt. If so, you need to delete the offline content stored by your browser.
b) Enabling cookies
You may need to enable cookies on your browser. LexisNexis, for example, only works with browsers that accept cookies.
Please note that enabling cookies involves some risk in terms of privacy and security. You may wish to re-adjust your settings after completing your search.
c) Enabling JavaScript
JavaScript may have been turned off on your browser. This can effect some indexes, such as ProQuest, Brookers.
d) Enabling popup windows
See our Managing Popups page.
e) Security messages
Some databases may cause your browser to display a security alert message. Normally you should be cautious about allowing your browser to display content with such a message, but if you are accessing a Library database through a Library link it should be safe to do so.
My browser settings are correct, what else could cause problems?
a) Personal firewall/virus protection
On personal computers internet security software (eg Norton Internet Security, Norton Firewall, McAfee, etc) can block access to electronic resources. Check cookies, firewall and page access settings.
b) SSL facility
If SSL (Secure Socket Layer) is disabled on your computer it can prevent you from logging onto some databases, for example LexisNexis. For further information, see the LexisNexis Troubleshooting page