How-to: Fix Browser Problems

Troubleshooting Tips: Browser problems disguised as access problems

Browsers add a layer of complexity when troubleshooting resource access problems. They can accumulate cookies and history ("cache" and bookmarks), all of which may contribute to resource access problems.

Here are a few access symptoms to OhioLINK resources which often indicate browser problems.

  • A resource can be accessed in one browser but not in another browser.
  • Similarly, a resource can be accessed from one device (say, desktop) but not from another device (say, phone).
  • Any of the following error messages appear when attempting to access a resource:
    openSaml::BindingException - An old proxied link is either bookmarked or is cached within browser history.
    This operation has been blocked by our security system as being potentially malicious - Old cookies.

This list isn't comprehensive! Try the tips below to resolve many problems.

 

Tip #1: Try a different browser

Not all resources work well with all browsers. Sometimes a content platform was written to take advantage of browser-specific features, and may not have been tested across a wide range of browsers.

In some cases, using a different browser is the quickest way to resolve a resource access problem. A newly installed browser won't have the residual cookies and cache of the problematic browser.

Summary: If a resource can be accessed in one browser but not another, the original browser needs to be cleaned. See Tip #4 Clean your browser.

Download links:  | Google Chrome | Mozilla Firefox | Microsoft Edge | Apple Safari |

 

Tip #2: Update your browser

Some resources may not support older versions of a browser.

Check and update your browser: https://updatemybrowser.org/

 

Tip #3: Run your browser in private or incognito mode

In private or incognito mode, browser cache and/or cookies are generally ignored.

Summary: If a resource can be accessed in private or incognito mode only, the browser needs to be cleaned. See Tip #4 Clean your browser.

Tip #4: Clean your browser

Clearing a web browser's search history, cookies, and cache often solves problems.

There are different cleaning levels: If you're having a problem with a specific site, you might first try removing cookies for just that site. If this doesn't resolve the problem, clear history and cache too.

Chrome Delete, allow and manage cookies in Chrome
Firefox Clear cookies and site data in Firefox
Edge How to manage and clear your cache and cookies
Safari Clear cookies in Safari on Mac

Final Tip - Get OhioLINK Support

Still stuck? Open an OhioLINK support ticket by clicking the button below:

Open Support Form