First off- thanks for your continued support of our site!

Some AOL users have had success connecting to the site when they use a web browser other than the AOL browser. That just means that after you have gotten online via your AOL dial-up, just minimize your AOL window, then double-click on Netscape or Microsoft Internet Explorer to open it up. Then, in the location/address bar at the top, simply type in www.videoretailer.com and hit Enter. We have been told that this by-passes AOL's proxy servers, hence making it easier to access our site. We hope this helps!

We've also gotten some explanations from AOL tech support that explain some of the problems AOL users have reported when connecting to the videoretailer.com web site.

The majority of problems likely revolve around what is known as a cache. When you visit a web site, a temporary copy of a web page is "cached" (stored) to your computer. This allows you to view a web site with out actually connecting via the web.

Here are a few situations which may be impeding your connection to the videoretailer.com web site:

• It could be that your AOL browser has a "damaged cache". AOL Tech Support described symptoms of a damaged cache which could range from some sites being irritatingly slow to unreachable. This may result in messages like, "Connection Timed Out", "DNS unreachable" or "Server is down, overloaded or unreachable."

• If you are familiar with your AOL software, clearing your cache may remedy this situation. For assistance clearing your cache, read the help files of your AOL browser or contact AOL tech support at (1-888-265-8006).

• The AOL adapter program (software which makes the connection between your browser and AOL) may be corrupt. This would allow you to view certain AOL sites, perhaps cached sites but not sites from the web.

• There could be some other problem with your AOL software. AOL tech support can help you out. Give a call to AOL (1-888-265-8006).

• MOST IMPORTANTLY, we (and AOL Tech Support) strongly advise you to upgrade to AOL version 4.0 or higher! Many of the above problems have been addressed with version 4.0 and higher. You can download the latest version directly from within AOL, but a much quicker way is to simply go and purchase one of many computer magazines that are packaged with a free AOL cd-rom. With this cd-rom you can upgrade much easier and faster than downloading.  Just insert the cd-rom and follow the on-screen prompts.  Any problems? Call AOL Tech Support at 1-888-265-8006.

We're committed to providing our site to all independent video retailers. If you experience a problem getting to our web site, please contact America Online with the details, and send us an email detailing the date and time.

Thanks from all of us at videoretailer.com!