Your Browser Setup and Security
What is software encryption?
To access the NSLDS Student Access web site, you must use a web browser that supports the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol. This protocol encrypts data that is transmitted between web sites and web browsers and prevents your personal loan/grant information from being read by others on the Internet while it is being transmitted between the NSLDS Student Access web site and your web browser. See the Browser Information/Setup page on this site for more information on supported browsers and browser requirements.
What levels of Secure Sockets Layer can I use?
There are three levels of SSL you can use:
- The 40-bit level is the international standard for software encryption. This is sufficient for our purpose. However, users of the NSLDS Student Access web site located in North America (USA and Canada) can use the highest level of encryption (128-bit), which is available only in North America.
- The 56-bit level is an intermediate standard for software encryption and can be used to access this web site.
- The 128-bit level is the strongest standard for software encryption found in domestic versions of Internet Explorer. This level gives much stronger protection of data transmitted over the internet.
How do I know if I have 128-bit encryption?
For Internet Explorer version 5.0 and above:
- Click the Help menu and then click the About Internet Explorer option. The About box will list the Cipher Strength.
All Internet Explorer versions above 5.01 are 128-bit encrypted.
Where can I get a 128-bit browser?
- For Microsoft Internet Explorer you can go to: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/downloads/default.asp.
- For more information on requirements for 128-bit browsers, you can go to the Browser Information/Setup page on this web site.
What is cache?
Browsers typically save pages to your hard disk or in memory. This allows for faster access of pages that are frequently used.
If you are using Internet Explorer version 5.0 or higher:
- On the Tools menu, click Internet Options, then click Advanced.
- Under the Security Area, scroll and then check "Do not save encrypted pages to disk." For more information on these settings, see the Browser Information/Setup page on this web site.
What are cookies?
Cookies are pieces of information that a web site transfers to your computer's hard disk. The most common use of cookies is for a web site to determine a user's personal preferences. This is especially common in large e-commerce sites. Some cookies are deleted after you quit the browser, and some remain between browser sessions. In order to create a session, your browser needs to "accept cookies." Please ensure that your browser is set to accept cookies.
How can I keep my Student Loan/Grant information secure?
To keep your information secure:
- Close your browser after accessing your Student Loan/Grant information.
- Keep your PIN in a secure place.
- Request to change your PIN immediately, if you think someone knows it.
How long can I be inactive before the site automatically logs me off?
You can be inactive (you do not use your mouse or keyboard) for 15 minutes.
Why is there no link to download Netscape?
As of March 1, 2008 AOL discontinued support of the Netscape client products. For this reason a link to download the browser has been removed from this site. If you currently are using Netscape to access NSLDS, you can continue with this browser, however, it is no longer supported.
