Microsoft Corporation is planning to release a new version of the Internet Explorer web browser (Internet Explorer 7 - IE7) in October. IE7 is anticipated to cause severe problems for users attempting to access GW applications such as Banner, Blackboard, EAS, or Kronos. Therefore, GW departments and individual staff and faculty should not download or use IE7 until such time it is certified to be compatible within the GW environment.

Microsoft Corporation is planning to automatically install IE7 on all Windows XP machines through the Windows Update feature. For those University workstations that have Patchlink installed, IE7 will be blocked from automatic installation on workstations.

For those users whose workstations do not have Patchlink installed and will not be able to benefit from this block, please call your Local Support Partner for assistance. The ISS Help Desk has instructions on how to set up the IE7 block for your computer.

Individuals should not download IE7 of their own accord onto University workstations. GW, Microsoft, and other vendors are working to enable IE7 compatibility with GW applications, and you will be provided with information as it becomes available.

For additional information, please consult your Local Support Partner or the ISS Help Desk at 202-994-5530.