How to: Troubleshoot website and browser-related problems


Introduction

Many problems associated with websites can be associated to a particular web browser. Below are some tips to get your computing device in an optimum position for most Texas Tech or other webapps to work. Be aware that some websites will not be fully compatible with every web browser.

Instructions

TIP: After completing each step, you may wish to try the site again to see if the step resolved the problem so that you do not have to complete unnecessary steps.

1) Scan for malware (viruses, spyware, etc.) using a supported anti-virus program and a supported anti-spyware program. Malware often interferes with access to websites. Plus, scanning for malware is always a good step to take.

2) Install all updates for your operating system.

3) Make sure your browser has the latest updates.

4) Restart your computer or mobile device and try again.

5) Are you using a bookmark in your browser? If so, try typing the URL directly in the address bar. Sometimes saved bookmarks can have expired token information in them.

6) Determine whether the problem is happening in another web browser. For instance, if you are using Edge, then try Chrome or Safari. If you do not already have an alternate web browser installed on your computer, we recommend that you install one.

7) Try accessing the website in a private or incognito window. If that resolves the problem, you may want to clear cache, cookies, and history for a more long term solution.

8) Try running your browser in safe mode:

9) Add the site's domain to the allowed sites lists in pop-up blocker settings, cookie settings, etc. Never set browser security settings to lower levels to fix a problem with a site!

10) Remove any unnecessary plug-ins (add-ons) from your browser. If a website absolutely requires a particular plug-in, make certain you're using a version of the plug-in that is compatible with the site.

11) If you have Windows, try accessing the site in Safe Mode w/ Networking. If the problem does not occur in Safe Mode w/ Networking, then interference is likely coming from software that runs on your computer when it boots to normal mode like a virus, spyware, a poorly-coded or poorly-configured firewall or security suite, or other unknown software. Try uninstalling any suspicious or unknown software.

12) Connect to TTUnet VPN.

13) Determine whether the problem is happening on multiple websites. If it's happening on all websites, continue with the following steps.

14) Completely reset the web browser.

CAUTION: Resetting your web browser can sometimes reset everything, including your browsing history, bookmarks, etc.

15) Attempt network troubleshooting.


OUTCOME

You are able to access the website with which you were having difficulty.