Elizabeth V. - Class of 2023

Cookies – Why Enable Them?

Elizabeth V. - Class of 2023

Enabling Cookies and Turning off Pop-up Blockers When Using SOAR

SOAR sends a cookie (a small file that identifies your computer) whenever you log on to the SOAR portal. The cookie is part of an encryption scheme that protects your privacy. Therefore, if your Internet browser is not set to allow cookies, the security program will not let you sign in.

When accessing SOAR, you must “turn off” pop-up blockers, which are utilities that prevent websites from opening or “popping up.” If your pop-up blockers are active, SOAR will not be able to automatically open new windows that displays your information. Many programs contain pop-up blockers such as Google Toolbars, MSN, Yahoo, and Windows XP security. Know which programs are installed on your computer and make sure you disable ALL pop-up blockers while using SOAR.

SOAR uses a transient cookie that is erased when you close the Web browser. These cookies typically contain information that does not identify the user.

For optimal computer performance, periodically delete your Internet Files. Follow these steps:

  1. Open a new Internet Explorer window and click Tools.
  2. Click Internet Options.
  3. On the General tab, click Delete Files and then click Delete Cookies.

Use the Default Values for Internet Explorer’s Security Settings . To configure this:

  1. Open a new Internet Explorer window and click Tools.
  2. Click Internet Options.
  3. Select the Security tab.
  4. Under “Select a Web content zone to specify its security settings,” click Internet.
  5. Click Default Level.
  6. Click Apply.
  7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 for each Web content zone.
  8. Click OK.

So that you can access the SOAR Web portal without glitches, regularly delete the temporary Internet files and cookies from your computer.

Security Software programs (such as SurfSecret, Norton Utilities, Internet Security, or Personal Firewall) may disable cookies and JavaScript functions. Because the IT department doesn’t know what software is running on your PC, please consult your PC/software vendor for assistance with these security programs.