Chat and other functions in WebCT are dependent on Java installed on the local user's computer. The user needs to have a working version of Java, preferably version 1.6 for PCs but other versions may work.

Chat and other functions may not work at all when the Java Cache on the local computer has reached the Maximum Value set in the Control Panel. When the Maximum Value is reached, functions requiring Java will not work until the Java Cache is cleared. Users who have their Java Cache set to "Unlimited" are not affected by this problem.

Java Cache is not the same as browser cache. Clearing the browser cache will not help when Java functions are not working. The user needs to specifically clear the Java Cache as described below.

To clear Java Cache on a PC with Windows XP:

1. Close all browser windows.
2. Go to Start - Settings - Control Panel - Java Plug-in.
3. Find the button that lets you Clear the Cache and click it. The location of the cache and check that the files have been removed.
4. To confirm that the Java Cache is cleared, go to the location of the cache and check that the files have been removed.
5. If the problem is not resolved, repeat this process. Some users have had to repeat this process 203 times to clear the Java Cache completely.

Hard Drive > Applications > Utilities > Java Plugin > Settings > Cache > Clear > Yes > Reset.

These steps may vary somewhat from Mac to Mac.