Scripting languages are most often used to make web pages more functional and to enable dynamic content such as interesting audio and visual effects.  This type of content is called "active content", using "active scripting".

Occasionally, unscrupulous people write malicious scripts which might compromise your security; however, if you use a modern browser (Firefox, Internet Explorer, Mozilla, Opera, or MAC Safari), if you use a major brand internet security suite (BitDefender, Kaspersky, McAfee, Norton, or Trend Micro) which is up to date, and if you use common sense (before you click), then it's probably safe to stick your toe in the water and enjoy the advantages of dynamic content.

Sure, it's a trade-off:  many advantages against a slight risk.  Compare this with driving too fast:  small advantage versus big risk.  We respect your judgement in any case.

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If you use Microsoft Internet Explorer, here's how to enable scripting:

Open "Internet Properties" (Control Panel > Internet Options, -or- go to the Internet Explorer toolbar and click Tools > Internet Options).

Click the Security tab, select the Internet zone, click Custom Level, scroll down to Scripting, then Enable Active Scripting - don't change anything else - then click OK.

If the browser asks if you really want to make that change, answer Yes, then close the panel.  Last, click the Refresh (Reload) button in the browser toolbar.

If this procedure doesn't work, your system administrator may have locked the controls, or your browser may be antique.  If it does work, this boring lecture will be replaced by better stuff.  Enjoy!