I'm having trouble accessing a website - Please help

[HappyFace]

I have been advised by the helpline attached to the website that I should ensure my browser and any other security devices are set to accept first and third party cookies. Also I need Java Script enabled. How do I check for these and are there any risks? Thanks

[Buenchico]

(Posted in 2 parts - it's a long answer!):

Some people don't like cookies on their system but they're harmless so no worries there. (The only worry that most people have about cookies is that they usually name the site which created them. So, if the local vicar returns his loaned computer to the the church council, he might not want a cookie named 'hornysexbabes.com' left on the PC!!).

People can do nasty things to your computer via Java Script but, as long as you've got up-to-date anti-virus and firewall programs, there's no need to be frightened of it!

Assuming that you're running Internet Explorer - you poor, sad thing -here's how to check that you've got the required setttings:

Go to 'Tools' then 'Internet Options'.
Select 'Security' and check that the 'Internet' zone is highlighted.
Select 'Custom' security settings.
Look under 'Cookies'. You should find two entries here (for different types of cookies). Check that there's a dot in the circle next to 'Enabled' for both types.
Look under 'Microsoft VM' - 'Java Permissions'. Check that 'High Safety' is selected. (If you still can't get into the website you want you might have to return here and try a lower safety level).
Look under 'Scripting' and check that 'Scripting of Java Applets' is enabled.
Click 'Apply' then 'OK'

[Buenchico]

(Second part!):

After you've done all this, you might well find that you still can't get into the site. My experience is that it usually turns out to be an 'over-enthusiastic' firewall (and not the browser settings) which causes problems like this. Your firewall program should keep a log of everything it blocks. Check this log and look for the name of the site you've been trying to access. If you find it listed, you'll have to do whatever your firewall requires to add this site to your 'permitted traffic' list.

Hoping this helps,

Chris.