TechNote (Archived)

Internet Explorer 5.1.4 upgrade installs Macromedia Flash Player 5

Issue

Installing Internet Explorer 5.1.4 for Macintosh OS X overwrites the installed version of Macromedia Flash Player.

Note: This problem only effects Internet Explorer version 5.1.4.

For example, if Macromedia Flash Player 6 is installed, updating to Internet Explorer 5.1.4 for OS X will replace Flash Player 6 with Macromedia Flash Player 5. This may cause problems viewing sites created for Macromedia Flash Player 6 viewing.

Internet Explorer will be automatically updated by OS X machines using the Software Update utility of OS X System Preferences. If you've recently run Software Update, view Version test for Macromedia Flash Player (TechNote 15507) to check the installed version of the Macromedia Flash Player. It is also possible to control-click on any Flash animation and choose "About Flash Player" to determine if the current player is the older Macromedia Flash Player 5 or the latest Macromedia Flash Player 6.

Solution

Macromedia is working with Apple to resolve this situation as quickly as possible.

In the meantime, complete the following steps to restore Macromedia Flash Player 6:

Manually delete the Macromedia Flash Player 5 plugin, usually located at:
Your Hard Drive:Library:Internet Plugins:Shockwave Flash NP-PPC
Download and install the carbonized version of the Macromedia Flash Player 6 installer for OS X.

When the Macromedia Flash Player installer is finished it should automatically launch Internet Explorer for OS X and proceed to the Macromedia Flash Player test page. This page will verify that Macromedia Flash Player 6 is installed. Your system may try to install the Macromedia Flash Player 6 in Classic Mode as well, which is normal if the player is not found.