Can't download anything anymore...why?

[ARandomKid]

It seems that the only file I'm capable of downloading is one with the .rar extension...mainly when I get a link from here and SC.org, too. Other sites, for some odd reason, work perfectly fine.

Anyone know why this is?

[bluemicrobyte]

Have you tried "right click, save as" to download files? Have you recently installed any new software?

Also, what browser are you using? I suggest FireFox since it seems to be the browser of choic e for many major computer nerds. If you're using firefox now, try downloading in IE.

[ARandomKid]

I'm doing everything in IE, since my parents for some reason won't let me get FireFox...I'll try the "right click, save as" thing.

It'll start downloading, but never finish...it always quits somewhere in the middle of downloading whatever it is I'm downloading.

I haven't downloaded any new programs that would have had an effect on this, though...and I have run Spyware and Virus scans, both coming up clean.

[bluemicrobyte]

It sounds like it's possible that you're being disconnected from the internet in the middle of a download. I would still try firefox just to see if that solves the problem -- try sending your parents to this website that explains the benefits of using firefox:

http://www.switch2firefox.com/

And you can download it here: http://www.mozilla.com/firefox/

[ARandomKid]

For some reason, it started working again right after you responded.

Go figure...it always happens. I make a thread, then immediately happen upon a solution right after somebody else replies...every single time.

Oh well.

[bluemicrobyte]

I suspect it could very easily be that you were being disconnected for a second, stopping the download, then being reconnected to the internet automatically. That would give the effect that your downloads mysteriously stop partway through the download.

So if it happens again, wait 5 minutes and try the download again and hope that solves it.

[Basan]

Btw, ARandomKid, I assume that from what ya spoke that you don't have admin privileges on the PC that are using. Even if that's the case you can get the Portable FF (http://johnhaller.com/jh/mozilla/) to work without having to install it. I have it on my work station 'cause the IT guys failed to reinstall it after my PC crash and even my department co-workers n' boss noticed that I get stuff a lot faster from the 'Net than them... (and one even asked me for it for her PC at home.)
Then see if it helps on your browsing. ;)