How to Troubleshoot Problems Caused by Your Browser

Problems caused by your browser can be frustrating and can interfere with the quality of your Web browsing experience. Thankfully, help menus and user forums can guide all of your troubleshooting attempts.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Connect Your Web Browser to the Internet

1. Verify your Internet connection by first clicking the 'Start' button on your computer. Many browser problems aren't browser problems at all, but are simply caused by a weak connection to the Internet.
2. Click on the 'My Network Places' link.
3. Click on the network connection you prefer.
4. Click on the 'Connect' button to connect to the Internet.

Use the Manufacturer's Web Site to Troubleshoot Problems

5. Visit the manufacturer's support or help page (see Resources below). This is the best place to locate an answer to your problem. Help topics are usually broken into sections, such as an official user's guide, FAQs, forums and/or live help.
6. Click on the 'Help' link for Internet Explorer or Netscape, or 'Support' for Mozilla's Firefox. Browse the list of questions asked to see if the manufacturer has already addressed your issue.
7. Browse FAQs to help troubleshoot the problem.
8. Look for user-generated forums. Here, you have the opportunity to ask the community of browser users at large. Chances are someone else has had the same problem before and can tell you how he or she fixed the problem.
9. Look for a support phone number or email address posted by the manufacturer. This is usually a last resort, as you may be charged for a phone consultation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're considering switching browsers due to the trouble you've been having, make sure your computer has the minimum system requirements necessary to support your new browser.
• When looking for help, always check the manufacturer's official help topics prior to the user forums. Official help sections are very clearly written and have step-by-step instructions to guide you. For more individualized troubleshooting, the forums can provide support.
• Many problems can be avoided if you update your Web browser regularly. With upgrades, you can ensure the safety of your browsing experience and of your computer.
• These steps were written using a PC installed with Windows XP. Some steps may differ if you're running a different operating system.