> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://participanthelp.dscout.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://participanthelp.dscout.com/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/general-troubleshooting-for-desktop-diary-single-session-studies.md).

# General troubleshooting for desktop Diary single-session studies

## Have you installed Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge?

Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are the only browsers that are compatible with desktop diary studies and usability studies.

* [Download the latest version of the Google Chrome browser here](https://www.google.com/chrome/)
* [Download the latest version of Microsoft Edge here](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/edge/download?form=MA13FJ)

## Do you need the Dscout browser extension?

**Desktop diary activities don't require the Dscout browser extension.** You complete those right in your Chrome or Edge browser, and you won't be asked to install anything. If you already have the extension installed, you can leave it in place—it won't interfere.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Finishing an entry you started before October 20, 2026?** For a limited time, a draft you saved using the extension is finished in the extension. If you're asked to open or install the extension when you resume a draft, that's expected. Finish that entry the way you started it. Any new entry you start is extension-free.

To avoid being sent to the extension for a draft you started without it, resume that draft in the same browser on the same computer where you began. Clearing your browsing data or switching browsers can cause Dscout to treat it as an extension draft.
{% endhint %}

If you're participating in a **usability test**, you do need the extension—it's a small software program we built that allows you to answer study questions from your desktop or laptop computer, including capturing videos, photos and screen recordings.

* [Download the Browser Extension here](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/dscout-diary/mjfgpadamkbikpdgpenjhnpckhdpcbcd)

## Camera/Microphone troubleshooting

Diary studies with desktop activities often require you to capture videos, photos, or screen recordings! You'll need a laptop/desktop with a working camera and microphone in order to complete a diary study with desktop activities.

* See how to grant camera and microphone permissions [here](/diary-studies/diary-technical-requirements/how-to-grant-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities.md)
* To troubleshoot permissions issues with camera, microphone or screen recording, click [here](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities.md)
* To check for other non-permissions issues with camera or microphone, click [here](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/camera-and-microphone-issues-in-desktop-diary-activities.md).

## Upload troubleshooting

There could be a number of reasons why your entries or media files aren’t uploading properly. The factors that affect the success of your upload can range from the size of your attached media file to the strength and consistency of your internet connection.

* For upload issues and troubleshooting steps for desktop Diary activities, click [here](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/upload-issues-and-troubleshooting-steps-for-desktop-diary-activities.md).


---

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