128-bit Encryption

Many popular browsers offer 128-bit SSL versions.

We recommend that you use either Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer. It is important to understand that these two browsers come in both 40-bit and 128-bit versions. You should always use the most secure version available (currently 128-bit).


To find out if your current Netscape browser supports 128-bit encryption, follow these directions:

Netscape Navigator 2.x: 128-bit is not supported. You should upgrade your browser to the newest 128-bit version.

Netscape Navigator 3.x: In the Help menu, select "About Netscape". If your browser provides 128-bit encryption, then on this page there will be an RSA logo, along with bolded wording that contains "This version supports U.S. security". If the text in this paragraph says "This version supports International security," then 128-bit encryption is not provided with your version of the browser. You should upgrade your browser to the newest 128-bit version.

Netscape Navigator 4.x:From the Help menu, select "About Communicator". Scroll down this page until you see the bolded paragraph that begins with the words "This version supports U.S. security". If the text does not say that, then 128-bit encryption is not provided with your version of the browser. You should upgrade your browser to the newest 128-bit version.


To find out if your current version of Internet Explorer supports 128-bit encryption, follow these instructions:

Internet Explorer 3.x: While Microsoft's Internet Explorer version 3.x can support 128-bit encryption, we recommend that you upgrade from this old version. For a variety of reasons, Internet Explorer 3.x is incompatible with many of the today's Internet technologies. Upgrading should provide a more enjoyable web experience.

Upgrade Instructions:
Internet Explorer 4.x:From the "Help" menu, select "About Internet Explorer." The following window will say: "Cipher Strength: 128-bit supported" in the middle of the page if 128-bit encryption is provided. Otherwise, it will say: "Cipher Strength: 40-bit supported". If you have the 40-bit version, you should upgrade to the newest 128-bit compatible Internet Explorer.

Internet Explorer 5.x:From the "Help" menu, select "About Internet Explorer". The following window will say: "Cipher Strength: 128-bit supported" in the middle of the page if 128-bit encryption is provided. Otherwise, it will say: "Cipher Strength: 40-bit supported". If you have the 40-bit version, you should upgrade to the 128-bit compatible Internet Explorer.


AOL browser requirements:

You can obtain the particular browser you would like to use by following the instructions provided.

Download time could require two hours. If you have trouble downloading, please contact America Online Customer Service by calling (888) 265-8006.

  1. Go to Keyword: 128browser
  2. Follow the instructions for downloading and installing your new 128-bit browser.
  3. Once installation is complete, return to Firstrust Bank to access your accounts.

How can I upgrade my browser?

Both Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator are free to download. In addition, both browsers can be also be purchased for a small fee on CD-ROM:

Call to order on CD-ROM:

  • Internet Explorer, call (800) 485-2048.
  • Netscape Navigator, call (650) 937-3777.

To download the 128-bit version of either browser free of charge, follow the instructions below. You may want to print this page for easy reference.

If you want to upgrade your version of Internet Explorer:

Visit: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/downloads/recommended/128bit/default.asp*

Follow the directions for downloading.

If you want to upgrade your version of Netscape Navigator:

Visit: http://www.netscape.com/download/*

Select the 128-bit download from the available products and then follow the instructions. If you are already using a Netscape Version 4.x browser, try their "SmartUpdate" feature that is listed on the left of the page.

* Clicking the links above will take you off the Firstrust Bank website. The website you are entering is not owned or controlled by Firstrust. We are providing this link as a convenience to you. Firstrust is not responsible for the content, accuracy or opinions or the performance or failure of any products or services advertised on linked websites. The linked website may have different security policies, cookie controls and privacy policies. You should review the privacy and security statements of any website before you provide personal or confidential information.