Ebook frequently asked questions

How are Norton ebooks delivered to my computer?

All Norton ebooks can be accessed directly through this web site in a convenient online format that you can view right in your web browser. Many titles are also available in a downloadable version that opens in a separate reader. Click here to see which version is right for you.

Will I be able to highlight, make annotations, and print?

Both ebook versions include all these features and more! Click here for a full list of capabilities.

What software is required to view Norton ebooks?

Before purchasing an ebook, please run this browser check to confirm that your computer meets the minimum requirements.

To view ebooks online, you will need one of the following browsers, with cookies enabled: Internet Explorer 6.0 or later; a Mozilla-based browser (Firefox 1.02 or later); or Apple Safari (Macintosh) 1.1 or later. You will also need a current version of the Macromedia Flash Player plugin.

To read downloadable ebooks you will need a current version of the free Adobe Reader. Further details are available at Powell's.

How about hardware requirements?

Online ebooks will perform best on machines equipped with at least 512 MB of RAM, a broadband internet connection, and a screen resolution of at least 1024 x 768.

Will my ebook registration ever expire?

Online ebooks purchased through this web site expire one year (365 days) after the date of purchase. Downloadable ebooks never expire.

I changed my mind about buying an ebook. Can I get my money back?

ebook purchases are non-refundable. Please take the time to peruse the demo chapters for the titles you're interested in, as well as the full list of ebook features, before you buy.

My downloadable ebook didn't download properly, or my download got interrupted. How can I re-download the title?

First, please confirm that you are using the most up-to-date version of Adobe Reader. Under the File menu, point to "Digital Editions..." and click on "My Digital Editions." Double-click the name of the interrupted title. For further information, please contact Powells.com.

How do I use the online ebook toolbar?

Click here for in-depth instructions on how to use the toolbar.

Why are there letters next to the page numbers in my online ebook?

Some Norton ebooks (for example, Comparative Politics) feature two or more titles that are bundled together in one ebook. In these cases, a letter prefixed to the page number will indicate which volume you are currently reading (for example, in Comparative Politics, a "C" denotes the Cases volume, and an "E" denotes Essentials of Comparative Politics.

When closing my online ebook, how can I make sure that my annotations are saved for my next session?

When leaving the ebook, your annotations will automatically be saved as long as you close the window using the close button in the upper-right corner of the ebook toolbar:

Keep in mind, too, that your changes will automatically be saved every time you advance a page in the ebook reader. When in doubt, you can always click the "Save" icon in the ebook toolbar at the end of your session.

What is Live Ink®? How do I use it?

Live Ink is a new format for reading text on your computer. It presents text in cascading paragraphs designed to facilitate efficient reading and retention of information.

Live Ink is available on select online ebooks purchased through Norton's website, and can be accessed via the ebook toolbar.

Further information is also available on Live Ink's website.

Do Norton ebooks support Text-to-Speech or other accessibility features?

Norton ebooks do not include accessibility features at this time.

Can I read Norton ebooks on my handheld device?

While all downloadable Norton ebooks are technically handheld-compatible provided that your device is equipped with Adobe Reader for Palm OSv3 or later, our titles are not formatted for handheld use. We do not recommend that you purchase the downloadable ebook if you intend to make significant use of it on a handheld device. Visit Powell's for further details.

Where do I go if I still need help?

If you have a question that is not answered here, or if you are having trouble accessing an online ebook, visit the W. W. Norton Help Desk. If your question has not already been answered, please post a new query. A member of our support staff will respond to you as soon as possible.