1) Web Browser Encryption
IRS requires SSL-3 Strong Encryption (at least 128 bits) using 3DES (triple-DES) algorithms.
How can I tell whether my browser supports 128-bit encryption?
To determine your browser's encryption level, follow the instructions below.
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If you are using Microsoft Internet Explorer
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Select "Help" from the Internet Explorer menu bar.
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Select "About Internet Explorer" from the drop-down menu.
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The "About Internet Explorer" dialog box will provide information on your browser version and encryption level.
If you are using Netscape
- Select "Help: About Netscape Navigator" or "Help: About Netscape or Communicator" from the menu bar.
- From the "About" Web page, scroll down the left hand side.
- If you have 128-bit US encryption you will find a statement that will appear similar to the following:
"This version supports US security with RSA Public Key Cryptography, MD2, MD5, RC2-CBC, RC4, DES-CBC, DES-EDE3-CBC."
- If you have the less stringent International encryption and need to upgrade your encryption level, you will find a statement that will appear similar to the following:
"This version supports International security with RSA Public Key Cryptography, MD2, MD5, RC2-CBC, RC4."
If you are using AOL (America OnLine)
Locate the file Schannel.dll on your hard drive and verify its description:
- To find a file or folder - Click the "Start" button, and then point to Find or Search. - Click "Files Or Folders."
- In the "Named" box, type "Schannel.dll" then click "Find or Search Now."
- Then, select the Schannel.dll from the "Find" dialog box, right click your mouse, and select "properties."
- Click on the "Version Tab".
- From there you can see a description of the file.
- If it says something like "PCT/SSL Security Provider US and Canada" then it is a 128-bit SSL encryption.
- If it says something like "EXPORT" then it is a 40-bit SSL encryption and you will need to upgrade.
If you need further assistance, please contact your Internet service provider and ask for 128-bit encryption.
Upgrading Browser Software
The current versions of Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer (as well as most other browsers) provide support for strong encryption. If you are eligible to receive this software (see below), we strongly recommend that you upgrade your browser to provide the highest level of communications security generally available on the Web.
These browsers and upgrade packages contain encryption technology that is subject to the U.S. Export Administration Regulations and other US law. They may not be exported or re-exported to certain countries or to persons or entities prohibited from receiving US exports. For more information, contact the Bureau of Export Administration ("BXA"). More information is available at the BXA homepage.
Internet Explorer
Many recent versions of Internet Explorer (versions between 4.0 and 5.01, inclusive) can be upgraded for strong encryption by downloading the High-Encryption Pack from Microsoft, which involves a download of less than 250 KB for Windows (roughly 350 KB for Alpha).Microsoft
If you have a version of Internet Explorer older than version 4.0, or wish to download a newer one than you have, Explorer can be downloaded at Microsoft. This download will take much longer than the high-encryption pack - As of early 2002, Microsoft suggests that it will amount to between 6 and 17 MB.
Netscape
Netscape browsers may be upgraded by downloading a recent version of the browser. Navigator and Communicator can be downloaded at Netscape. You should be aware that this download is likely to be at least 10 MB, which will take a considerable time on a dial-up connection (version 6.2 is 27 MB, and the base installation of version 4.79 is 17 MB).
AOL
Go to the homepage of AOL and click the "Join Now" or "Upgrade" graphic.
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