Internet Explorer Won't Open Web Page
When I use Internet Explorer to access Web pages, I get an "can't open or display page" error. Do you get this same problem? This is not a one time occurrence, unfortunately. Everyone seems to be coping with this same problem.
Unfortunately, many times this is just temporary. The server you are trying to log into is being overwhelmed with many hits at once, which slows down the processor and connection time. More times than not, the server is configured to send back a message to your computer that it is too busy at the moment to allow you to connect to it. Or, in another way of speaking, its nodes are all full. That is why you get that message. Other times, it may not be the fault of the target server.
If you have a dial-up account and you can't access Web pages, the fault may line in your phone line. Too much line noise causes many problems with data communication. Call your friend and ask him or her to log onto the site to see if it is up. If your friend is able to access the site, and you can't, you are the one with the problems. Again, the culprit could be excessive line noise. If you have a cable modem, and you can't access the site, you may have problems with the configuration of your browser or network card.
With your browser, it may be the case of too high of security. In Internet Explorer, select Tools - Internet Options. Click the Security tab and make sure "Internet" is selected under the Web content zones. Click the Default Level button, set the slider under "Security level for this zone" down one level, and try accessing the site again. If your browser is set to the High security level, try setting it to Medium, Medium-low, or even Low, despite your browser's warnings of impending doom. Click Custom Level top bring up the Security Settings dialog box. Scroll down to the Scripting section and make sure Java is enabled.
Many sites require 128-bit encryption. To see if your browser has that level, select Help, About Internet Explorer and look under "Cipher Strength." If it's not 128-bit, click Update Information to go to Microsoft's update page.
If you are using a firewall, your set up may be conflicting with certain sites. If you find it hard to access a certain site and you took all the steps above, try to disable your firewall and then try again. If you find you are able to access the site, your firewall settings may need adjusting.
Another factor to consider is your cache. Believe it or not, there could be something in your cache that is conflicting with IE. It is usually a good practice to clear the cache after you use IE every time. To clear the cache, select Tools - Internet Options. Under "Temporary Internet files" on the General tab, click the Delete Files button, then click OK. If you want to set up IE to automatically clear cache out every time you use it do this: select Tools - Internet Options. Then click the Advanced tab. Scroll down till you find "Empty Temporary Internet Files folder when browser is closed." Make sure this option is checked. Click OK. You will find this option under the Security section.
One other factor to think about is your parental controls setting. It may be causing the problem. In IE, select Tools - Internet Options, and click the Content tab. Choose the Disable button under Content Advisor. If you do not have such as button, this will not be the problem.
Any adjustments to your security settings in IE can expose you to risk factors, so decide if trying to access one or two Web sites is worth it.
Harry Husted is a freelance writer and author. His writing projects include ghostwriting, copywriting, web site content, and DTP. His credits include articles for Internet Day, Internet World, Advertising Today, Advertising Age, L-Advertising, and a host of others. Harry is also an author of three books, Learn How to Repair Computers: Get Certified in 15 Weeks, How to Write Your Way to Millions, and How to Find and Start a Legitimate Home Business. He can be reached by sending email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit his site at http://www.creatingwords.com
This article is copyright (c) 2002 by Harry Husted, and may be reprinted in it's entirety as long as this byline and copyright statement is included.