All of the active content is blocked as a security issue in Windows XP and later versions.  What can I do to be able to view the macromedia and wmv movies?

In order to reduce the vulnerability of Windows XP and presumably later versions of the Windows operating system, Microsoft developed service pack 2.  Service Pack 2 was designed to prevent Activex content from being run on local computer hard drives and CDROM drives.  The blockage of this type of content was identified by Microsoft to be rather crucial. 

Unfortunately, Activex content is used extensively on the CDROM to deliver the video and animation content.  It is not possible to simply permit this CDROM content to work.  In order to fully view the ActiveX content on this CDROM, you must disable part of Microsoft's protection.  The decision whether to deactivate this security feature is left with the computer owner.  The steps to deactivate the security feature are

• Open Windows Internet Explorer

• Click on Tools and Internet Options

• Click on the Advanced Tab

• Scroll Down to Security

• Click on Allow active content from CD's to run on my computer.  The check box should be checked (see example).

• Close the various windows and close Internet Explorer.  The next time you access the CDROM, the content should play.

Note: If you transfer the files from the CDROM to your hard drive, you will have to permit active content to run in files on My Computer.  This configuration is highly discouraged for non expert users.