Javascript is the language that has grown to become just as important on the web as HTML and CSS. If HTML makes up the building blocks of a web page, and CSS makes up the presentation of that page in the user’s browser, it’s JavaScript that controls the interactivity of the page and the way that the user can interact with its various functions.

It’s possible to gain support not just for JavaScript, but for full Java applications by downloading a package from the Sun website. Sun Microsystems allows you to install the Java source library files on your operating system, which in turn opens up a whole new horizon of possibilities for Java driven plugins. And of these, you will find many on the web.

Java can be downloaded across any of the major operating systems (Windows, Solaris, Linux and Apple), and it remains platform independent - one of the key factors which has allowed it to grow in popularity over time. Once the package is downloaded, you will need to restart your browser and in some cases, it may even be necessary to reboot from scratch. This allows your operating system to detect the new Java library files.

If you’re running various applications or accessing websites that require the use of JavaScript, and you still can’t see the scripting in use, it may be necessary to make some edits to the Internet browsing options that are relevant to whichever browser it is that you’re using.

Be aware that sometimes, through the user’s command or otherwise, the scripting options may be turned off thus making it impossible for a plugin to load even if you wanted it to. To counter this, you should open your browser and then go to your Tools tab. Select Internet Options and go to your Settings.

Scroll down until you see the options for scripting, including Java and Javascript. Now make sure that both boxes are checked, as well as the box for third party plugins. Save and apply your settings then close the browser. When you re-open it, you should find that scripting is enabled and in use on websites. In some cases, it may be necessary to restart the computer entirely.

So why is Javascript so important on the web? There was a time when it was quite optional to have it active. But in recent years, web applications have become so sophisticated that JavaScript is seen as a must-have.

If you’re using a website that generates JavaScript pop-ups, you must have the scripting active to get full functionality out of the site. However, some viruses and spyware apps are known to cause trouble with JavaScript. If you’re having JavaScript problems and everything seems to be enabled, you should consider running an anti-virus scanning package to make sure that there isn’t a third party app causing conflicts with the scripting interface and the DOM.

As a worst case troubleshooting scenario, you may want to download another browser to ensure that the JavaScript problem isn’t directly related to a more significant fault with the browser itself.