Java is a programming language that can be used to write applets that animate web pages, or to create interactive web sites that are 'alive.' Java is the program language behind most chat rooms.

If you are encountering problems in your course's chat room, it may be that the setting within your browser for Java may be disabled. Here are the steps to take to enable Java in Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape Communicator.

Microsoft Internet Explorer

From the Tools menu, select Internet Options. The following screen will appear.

Click on the Security tab, then click the Custom Level button. The Security Settings window will open.

Scroll down the window until you see the heading for Scripting. Make sure that the Scripting of Java applets is Enabled.

Netscape Communicator

From the Edit menu, select Preferences. This will open the Preference window.

Single-click on the Advanced heading to populate the right-hand window. The Advanced window will appear on the right side of the screen.

Make sure that the Enable Java section is selected.