[bebu]

I have been unable to access the chat room. I did download and enable the recommended Java program - but no luck. I was able to access it yesterday - has anyone else had the same problem??

[Christina86]

Sometimes it can be hard to get in... website is too slow, or any other problem. Have you downloaded anything new since yesterday, or made any changes to your computer at all?

[(JD)]

The chat server requires a lot of memory. You can increase your allotment of memory on your computer. You can also make sure to clear your cache before accessing the chat rooms. (If you have viewed many photos, for instance, and they are still in your temporary files, it could prevent you from entering chat.)

TC!

[bebu]

Have had alot of problems with my computer lately. I had mcfee as a virus protector, but everytime it upgraded I lost all my files, e-mails, and bookmarks. Obviously something that I did to retreive these messed up my ability to "chat". I did a system restore, and deleted mcfee and also google. Would that make a difference?? This is so frustrating - I did find so much help and no longer have access to it. Have talked to Dell, Microsoft, Mcfee and am out of ideas.

[(JD)]

Bebu, I'm having daily conversations with the McAfee people! They don't have a clue to my issues.

Three general ideas:

Java update. A must.
Clear your cache. The chat server requires a lot of memory and if you have loads of pictures, for instance from visiting the gallery, you may not have enough memory to load chat.

In the same vein, change your computer's allotment for memory. Increase it above the default setting.

[bebu]

Hey all - thanks for everyone's replies. I think I finally figured out the prob. I have always had Mozilla Firefox installed, but for some reason it is now fighting with my internet explorer. (why can't we all get along?? ) As long as I log on using Firefox and not internet explorer I can access chat - never used to be like that, but obviously something changed. It's a pain in the butt, but worth doing to get to chat.

Thanks again.

[bebu]

Oh and I wanted to let Sky know that Mcfee told me to remove and re-install my internet explorer - which, after speaking with Dell was told was impossible with my system (Vista premium)!! Dell actually told me that the guy from Mcfee didn't know what he was talking about!!! It is so frustrating because we call these people and follow instructions, trusting they know their stuff.....turns out they sometimes don't!!!

[(JD)]

Exactly. Well, I had to quit using IE with my Vista, and use mozilla. I had to uninstall my McAfee a few times...which reminds me, I haven't reinstalled it yet That's what I'll do when I finish writing this.

I still have a problem, so it isn't McAfee on this one item.

Several of us had real issues with IE7, btw. Before I went to mozilla firefox, I deleted 7 and ran on 6 only...others have found this helps too. You can delete IE7 the updates appear to not be compatible with internet life

Good wishes... any more ideas, tell us...and if I think of something else I 'll let you know too!

OH I had to add the chat server address (not just PC addy) to the allow list! I could only get that by trying to load chat, and quickly copying the address at that point.

[Christina86]

Bebu,

I had the exact same problem with switching from IE to Firefox when I installed Firefox. Something about add-ons being disabled, so I couldn't/can't do much on IE anymore. At least you're not alone on that.

[Atredies]

Ok few things.

1st. McAfee is just horrible unless you like problems and viri.
2nd. Under no circumstances should you ever listen to anything that your support department from the company who built your computer tells you. The have a book they read from and follow exactly what it says. You ever had a problem that was outlined step by step exactly like in a book on any topic? PCs are no different. I have worked for H.P. Trust me on this.
3rd. When you install firefox your default ie in your recent apps, becomes what is known as IE (No-Plugins) This simply means it will not run any kind of flash, java, active-x, etc. There is a way to pull the old IE back with everything turned on really simply. Just browse your start menu and it will be there listed as (Internet Explorer). Simple enough.

For those with McAfee, Norton, AVG, etc. Coming from 20+ years in computers over 12 professionally...dump them. Get yourself a router for a firewall, and use Avast as your Anti-Virus. It updates several times a day usally, gives the best protection and is absolutely free. I have yet to have to go remove a virus on any computer running it.