Troubleshooting Database Access
AOL or XP Users | Cable/DSL Modems & Firewalls | HPL Proxy Users | Internet Service Providers | Proprietary Browsers
If you are using a proprietary browser such as CompuServe [CS], America OnLine [AOL], etc, you may experience sporadic errors and/or access to the databases. We recommend that you use a browser such as Internet Explorer or Firefox.
As we see the rise in popularity of cable modems and high-speed Internet connections, remote users are becoming more aware of the security factor associated with such. Subsequently, remote users are deploying a variety of personal firewalls and/or Internet security software packages to counter this threat
If you are connected to the Internet via a cable modem with a personal firewall and/or Internet security software and are receiving the username/password challenge page from a database, it is possible that reconfiguring the device/software will correct this issue. Please refer to the device/software users manual and/or the vendor for additional technical assistance.
While rare, some Internet Service Providers block certain kinds of traffic on their networks. We recommend that you send the URL that is failing to your service provider and ask them to check if they are blocking it.
For users, especially those with AOL or the Windows XP Operating system, who are unable to access the HCPL databases, try the following fix in Internet Explorer.
- Click Tools
- Click Internet Options
- Click the Advanced Tab
- Make sure that Enable Install On Demand is UNCHECKED just like the example below.
- Click OK
Troubleshooting Database Proxy Errors
For users who receive proxy errors when trying to access databases, especially those who also use Houston Public Library, try the following fix in Internet Explorer.
- Click Tools
- Click Internet Options
- Click the Connections Tab
- Click LAN Settings
- Make sure that the boxes; especially "Use automatic configuration script" and "Use a proxy server..." are UNCHECKED just like the example below.
- Click OK
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