> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.essal.dz/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Technical Requirements & Troubleshooting

> Supported browsers, login troubleshooting, first-time activation, and session configuration details.

If you are experiencing issues logging in or navigating the **Essal Student Portal**, follow this guide to verify your technical setup.

***

## 1. Supported Web Browsers

The portal uses modern web standards (HTML5, ES2024, Web Storage, Service Workers) and runs best on the latest versions of these browsers:

* **Desktop:**
  * Google Chrome (Version 110+)
  * Mozilla Firefox (Version 115+)
  * Microsoft Edge (Version 110+)
  * Apple Safari (Version 16+)
* **Mobile:**
  * Google Chrome for Android
  * Apple Safari for iOS (Required for PWA installation)

> \[!WARNING]
> Private/Incognito browsing mode is not recommended. It can restrict local storage access, causing automatic logout when you refresh the page or close your browser tab.

***

## 2. Troubleshooting Login Errors

### "Invalid Credentials"

* **Check the spelling:** Ensure there are no trailing spaces or uppercase letters in your email.
* **Domain Check:** Remember that the portal only accepts emails ending with **@essal.dz** or **@essal.edu.dz**. Personal emails (e.g. `@gmail.com`, `@yahoo.com`) will be blocked.
* **First Login:** If you are logging in for the first time, check your personal email for the temporary password generated by the administration.

### "Account Not Activated"

* This means your student file registration is pending administrative approval.
* Contact the administration office at [support@essal.dz](mailto:support@essal.dz) or visit the reception desk to verify your file status.

### Stuck in "Forced Password Change" Loop

If the portal repeatedly asks you to update your password and won't let you view the dashboard:

1. Ensure your new password is at least 8 characters long and contains a mix of letters and numbers.
2. Clear your browser cache and cookies, then try logging in again.
3. If the loop persists, contact IT support in Computer Lab 1 to reset your password state.

***

## 3. Cookies and Local Storage

The portal uses secure session cookies (powered by Better Auth) to keep you logged in.

* **Enable Cookies:** Your browser must allow first-party cookies for `app.essal.institute`. If cookies are blocked, you will be unable to log in.
* **Storage Space:** The PWA stores course timetables and notifications locally. Ensure your device has at least 100MB of free space to keep app data synchronized.

***

## 4. Contact IT Support

If you have tried the steps above and still cannot access your student account:

* **Email:** [support@essal.dz](mailto:support@essal.dz) (Include your full name, student ID number, and a screenshot of the error).
* **On-Site IT Desk:** Visit the IT department inside Computer Lab 1 at the Institute (Saturday – Thursday).