Popup Blocker - FAQ
There are several varieties of popup blockers available to end-users. This document answers questions about the different popup blockers and explains which ones are best.
Do I need a popup blocker on my computer?
This is a personal preference. While there are many sites that use unwanted popup advertisements, there are also legitimate websites that use popups as part of their infrastructure. Using a popup blocker may limit the usability of these websites.
Are any university websites affected by popup blockers?
The following univeresity websites use popups. If you are using a popup blocker, you need to have popups enabled for the sites to function properly.
Which popup blockers does DoIT recommend?
We recommend using the popup blockers built-in to the following web browsers:
Note: The following links are to external sites such as Microsoft's and Mozilla's knowledge bases
- Internet Explorer 6/7
- Internet Explorer 8
- Internet Explorer 9
- Internet Explorer 10
- Internet Explorer 11
- Firefox
- Safari 5
- Safari 6/7
- Safari 8
- Opera
- Chrome
These browsers allow users to customize how the popup blocker works. Click on the browser you are using to learn how to customize the popup blocker for your use.
I downloaded a third-party popup blocker. Can I use it instead?
You are welcome to use third-party popup blockers; however, DoIT does not support them. They may contain spyware, not function properly, or not function at all. If you use third-party popup blockers, be certain not to have more than one installed at any time.
How do I tell if I have a third party popup blocker installed?
Third party popup blockers can be difficult to detect. Google and Yahoo toolbars will appear in your web browser's menu under View | Toolbars. Other software may appear in your Taskbar, and some may not be detectable at all. Check your Add/Remove Programs menu and run a scan for spyware to try to eliminate any unwanted popup blockers.