Research Insights
NIH eRA Modules: Browser Security Update
NIH eRA modules are tightening browser security.
eRA is strengthening the security of its modules on Nov. 30 by moving to the ‘https only’ secure connection mandated for all federal agencies. This change affects use of eRA Commons module used for NIH proposals, awards, just-in-time-submission and progress report submissions. It also impacts use of browsers for eRA Assist, IAR and iEdison.
What This Means for You
With this policy, some web browser versions will no longer work. You may need to update your web browser to continue using eRA modules. Here is a list of browsers and versions that will still work properly following the update:
o Google Chrome® version 4.0.211.0 and higher
o Firefox® version 4 and higher; with Firefox 17, Mozilla® integrates a list of websites supporting the new protocol
o Internet Explorer® 11 on Windows® 8.1 and Windows® 7 when KB 3058515 or higher is installed (Released on Windows Update in June 2015)
Note: These three are also the browsers eRA uses to develop and test its modules for browser compatibility, as listed in the eRA Browser Compatibility statement. While lower versions are listed below, we encourage you to upgrade to the versions listed in our browser compatibility statement above to ensure you have an optimal experience when using eRA modules.
The following four browser versions will work with the security upgrade, but are not included in the in the eRA Browser Compatibility statement:
o Opera® version 12 and later
o Safari® as of OS X Mavericks
o Microsoft® Edge™ and Internet Explorer® 11 on Windows® 10