SciFinder System Recommendations and Requirements

To ensure the best SciFinder experience, and to conform with the most recent Internet security standards, use this recommended web browser technology. (Updated April 2019)

OS/Browser Recommendations

  • Windows 10: Firefox 65 and higher, Firefox 60 (ESR); Internet Explorer 11; Chrome 63 and higher
  • Windows 8.1: Firefox 65 and higher, Firefox 60 (ESR); Internet Explorer 11; Chrome 63 and higher
  • Windows 7: Firefox 65 and higher, Firefox 60 (ESR); Internet Explorer 11 ; Chrome 63 and higher
  • Mac OS 10.12 and higher: Safari 11 and higher; Firefox 65 and higher, Firefox 60 (ESR); Chrome 63 and higher

CAS Structure Editor Requirements

SciFinder users have two options for structure drawing.

1. Non-Java CAS Structure Editor

A non-Java structure editor is available. Meeting the basic browser and
operating systems requirements outlined above, and having JavaScript and cookies enabled are sufficient to use this editor. A Java plug-in is not required.

The Non-Java structure editor allows SciFinder users experiencing problems with Java to draw structures for substance and reaction searches. The available features are equivalent to those in the Java version.

2. Java-based CAS Structure Editor

  • Note for Chrome Users:  The September 2015 update to Google Chrome 45 disabled NPAPI support completely, and all Chrome users will need to switch to the Non-Java CAS Structure Editor.
  • Having trouble using the Java-based CAS Structure Editor since the release of Java 1.7.0_65? Try the non-Java editor or see this possible solution from January 2014.
  • Using the Java based structure editor requires a Java Runtime Environment (JRE) and the associated Java plug-in to link the JRE to browsers. A 64-bit version of Java is required for 64-bit browsers.
  • For all supported Windows operating systems and browsers use Java version 1.6.0_65 or later, or 1.7.0_65* and later. 
  • Note: Oracle has discontinued Java support for Windows XP. We recommend using the Non-Java CAS Structure Editor, or upgrading to a newer operating system if you wish to continue using the Java based editor.
  • For Mac OS X 10.8 use Java version 1.7.0_65* or later.
  • Newer browsers may require the most recent versions of Java for security purposes.
  • Visit Javatester.org or the Oracle Java site to see if Java is installed and working on your computer.
  • Information about downloading and installing Java is available at the www.java.com download page.

* When using Java version 1.7.0_45 or later you may be required to "Allow" Java to run for each new SciFinder session. Look for the warning icon and when prompted select "Allow" or "Don't Block". 

Use the Non-Java structure editor if you have difficulties accessing or using the Java-based editor. For assistance contact the CAS Customer Center. 


Internet Connection Requirements

Check with your organization's Site Administrator, Key Contact or help desk before changing any settings to conform to these requirements.

  • SSL (https) connection on port 443 to scifinder.cas.org.
  • https connection on port 80 to chemport.cas.org for full-text linking

Additional Recommendations and Requirements

  • JavaScript and cookies must be enabled.
  • Add https://scifinder.cas.org to your browser’s "Trusted Sites" and Pop-up blocker Exceptions lists
  • A PDF reader is required for printing SciFinder answers and other information. Adobe Reader can be used with Mac or Windows computers. Preview is a free viewer provided with Mac OS X.
  • Appropriate ActiveX and plug-in permissions are required for Internet Explorer.
  • New Versions of Firefox and Chrome may block the use of older Oracle Java plug-in versions.
  • Firefox users may need to activate or update plug-ins if this icon appears in the URL/location bar: plug-in_alert

Contact Support