Unless otherwise stated in the individual online services, all GovHK online services have been tested for the following combinations of popular operating systems and browsers:
Microsoft Windows XP | Microsoft Windows Vista | Microsoft Windows | Mac OS X | Linux | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 | Yes | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 | Yes | Yes | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 | Not applicable | Yes | Yes | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Mozilla Firefox 3.5 - 9.0 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Safari 4 - 5 | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | Yes | Not applicable |
Table 1: Tested operating systems and browsers
In addition to the above, you can use other browsers to access most GovHK online services that do not require user authentication. For technical reasons, some GovHK online services may require specific operating systems, browsers or system configurations other than those listed above to ensure that the services operate smoothly. In such a case, the requirements will be stated on the entry page and the FAQ of that online service.
If you are using Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) for Internet connection, please refer to the related FAQhttp://www.gov.hk/en/about/helpdesk/faq/payment/index.shtml#q11.
Browser Configuration
In general, to use GovHK online services, you need to enable the following in your browser:
- Javascript
- Cookies
- 128-bit SSL
- Java (for services that require Java). Java 6 update 10 or above is required if you are using Firefox 3.6.
For users of Firefox 3.6.2 or before:
GovHK online services make use of certificates issued by the Hongkong Post. However, Firefox 3.6.2 or earlier versions do not have the Root CA Certificates of Hongkong Post by default. You need to configure your browser to recognise certificates issued by the Hongkong Post. Please refer to our FAQhttp://www.gov.hk/en/about/helpdesk/faq/infosec/index.shtml#q3 on how to download and install the Hongkong Post Root CA Certificates. The Root CA Certificates of Hongkong Post are already included by default starting from Firefox 3.6.3.
For GovHK Online Services that Require User Authentication
To ensure the security of user authentication (e.g. using digital certificate), you must use one of the combinations of operating systems and browsers listed in Table 1 above to access those services. In addition, you need to have Java Runtime Environment (JRE) installed.
If you use the e-Cert on your Smart ID card, you need:
- a compatible smart card readerhttp://www.hongkongpost.gov.hk/product/eproduct/reader/index.html;
- Hongkong Post e-Cert Control Managerhttp://www.hongkongpost.gov.hk/product/download/ctlmgr/index.html;
- Java 6 (Windows 7 / Vista users need to install Java 6 Update 10 or later);
- (Windows 7 / Vista users) to log on Windows with a "standard user" account before using the online service.
New Operating Systems and Browsers
When a new operating system or browser is released to the public, the Government needs to conduct compatibility tests to ensure proper function of the online services on the new operating system or browser. When compatibility issues arise, we may need to modify the online services. The whole process of modification and testing may take a few months to complete.
Downloading Java
You can download Java from the following links.
- Java for Microsoft Windows and Linuxhttp://www.java.com/en/
- Mac OS X: use the Software Update feature in the operating systemhttp://support.apple.com/kb/HT1338
Please call the GovHK Help Desk at 183 5500 in case you need assistance in downloading Java.
Enquiries
If you encounter problems in using a GovHK online service, please report them to the GovHK Help Desk (telephone: (852) 183 5500 or email: enquiry@1835500.gov.hk) together with the exact version of the operating system and browser you are using.
Last review date: March 2012
