Yes. Unless you've changed your settings, you should already be set up to receive Java content.

• How do I know if I need Java and JavaScript enabled?
  
• How do I turn Java and JavaScript on or off?
  
• What can I do in response to JavaScript errors?
  
• Can I catch a computer virus from running Java applets on the web?
  

The truth is that at most sites there's still little if any content that is dependent on Java or JavaScript. If you disable them you're unlikely to notice a difference right away. But usage of Java and JavaScript is increasing rapidly, so unless you're ha ving problems, you'll probably want to keep them enabled. If you're having difficulties that appear to be Java or JavaScript-related, you can simply try disabling one or both of them, and see how it goes. There's no harm in turning them off aside from the missing content. It will not always be apparent when you're missing something, but well-designed Web pages often provide notification of important Java or JavaScript content.

By default, Java and JavaScript are enabled (turned on) in your Internet software. To disable (turn off) Java and/or JavaScript, do the following:

Netscape Communicator 4.04 and 4.7

1. Click the Edit menu, then click Preferences...
2. Click the Advanced category.
3. Click to uncheck one or both of the Enable Java and Enable JavaScript checkboxes. Click OK to save your changes.

Microsoft Internet Explorer

1. Click the Tools menu, then click Internet Options.
2. Click the Security tab.
3. Click the Internet zone.
   
4. Click the Custom Level button.
5. Scroll down the list until you find the Scripting section.
   
6. Under Scripting of Java applets, make sure that Enable is selected.
7. Click OK to save the changes.
8. Click OK to close the Internet Properties window.

Netscape Navigator 3.01

1. Click the Options menu, then click Network Preferences...
2. Click the Languages tab.
3. Click to uncheck one or both of the Enable Java and Enable JavaScript checkboxes. Click OK to save your changes.

To enable Java and/or JavaScript, reverse the process described above.

JavaScript errors can be caused by many things. Like any computer language, JavaScript is only as effective as the person doing the coding makes it. Much of the time the only thing to be done is to inform the Webmaster of the site in question that something seems to be wrong. However, if you're getting JavaScript errors or unexpected quits, try letting the page completely load before complaining. Many JavaScript errors are caused when a user clicks somewhere on the page before it has completely loaded.

No. Java is inherently virus-proof. Unlike ordinary applications, Java applets can't alter data on your hard drive, therefore Java poses no risk of infection by computer viruses.

Related Questions:

• What is Java?
• What are Java applets?
• What is JavaScript?
• How to find out if Javascript is enabled in Microsoft Internet Explorer

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