Q. My browser displays a connection or server error when I use USC Libraries Search or an article database.

If you get a connection error when trying to access a book or article you found in USC Libraries Search or other USC databases, there might be one of several possible problems:

1. If you are connecting from off-campus or via wireless, make sure you have logged into the USC Libraries' proxy server. Usually you should be automatically prompted to log into the proxy server whenever you try to access our resources. If you are not certain that you have logged in, go to the Libraries' homepage, click on the link Login and log in.
    
2. If you are sure you have logged in but are still having problems, try a different browser (e.g., if using Safari, try Chrome or Firefox). You will have to log into the Libraries proxy server again in the new browser.
    
   • If the site appears correctly in the new browser, then you may need to clear your cache and browser cookies in your original browser.
   • If the problem only occurs in ProQuest, go to their support page to clear your cookies for just ProQuest.

If you get a message saying that the database server is down, this is usually a temporary condition. Try accessing the site later.

NOTE: If you still cannot access what you need. please report the problem to us.

See Troubleshooting E-resources Access Using the Proxy Server for other tips.