Using Plug-ins

What Do I Need to Use Plug-ins?

The type of computer hardware and software you need will depend on the type of plugins you would like to use. For example, to use plug-ins that take advantage of audio and video, you computer must be equipped to handle sound and video. Most newer computers have these features already installed. You will also want to make sure that you have enough storage space and memory on your computer to use the plug-in. Most plug-in distributors provide guidelines and system requirements. Be sure to review these requirements before downloading and installing plug-ins.

How Do I Know if I Need a Plug-in?

You can add plug-ins to your browser on an "as needed" basis. Most web sites will inform you if you need a plug-in to access portions of their web site. For example, you may see a notice that looks something like this:

To view these files you will need Adobe's Acrobat Reader plug-in installed on your computer.

This notice lets you know that you will need the Acrobat Reader plug-in in order to view certain documents on the web site. If you don't already have the plugin, clicking on the "Get Acrobat Reader" button will take you directly to a page where you can download the necessary software.

Unfortunately, some web sites do not give you any warning about needing plug-in software. If you don't have the necessary plug-in, you will see an alert window similar to the ones below:

In Netscape 4.0 (Communicator), the warning looks like this:

If you click on the "Get the Plug-in" button, your browser will try to access the distributor's download page for the plug-in.

In Internet Explorer, the warning looks like this:

This window will appear anytime Internet Explorer tries to download a file that doesn't have a helper application or plug-in assigned. The "save it to disk" option will ask you to save the file to your computer before trying to open it. NOTE: Use the "Save it to disk" option when downloading software and other programs. When in doubt, click the "Cancel" button to stop downloading the file.

If you know you have a program on your computer that can open the file, select the "open it using a program on your computer" option. You will then be prompted to choose a program to use to open the file. Keep in mind, however, that just because a program is listed doesn't mean it can open the file.

The Master Internet Volunteer Program was developed by the University of Minnesota Extension Service and was adapted for use in North Dakota with permission. Copyright  © 2000  North Dakota State University. All rights reserved.

North Dakota State University Extension Service