Problem: I can't connect to a Blackboard Collaborate session and I get the error: "connection failed - direct call failed." Solution: There are a variety of possible causes for this error. Some things to check are: 1. Is there an active internet connection? Can you connect to other websites normally? 2. Can you connect to the Blackboard Collaborate Configuration room at http://go.ncsu.edu/configuration? 3. Do you have firewall software that might be blocking Java? If you are trying to connect from behind a company firewall, you might need to consult your System Administrator. Also see Blackboard s Knowledge Base article 8172-45 "How do I configure a Personal Firewall/Router for my Elluminate session?" located at http://support.blackboardcollaborate.com/ics/support/default.asp?deptID=8336&task=knowledge&questionID=45, and/or Blackboard s Knowledge Base article 8172-152 "I need my System Administrator s Help!" at http://support.blackboardcollaborate.com/ics/support/default.asp?deptID=8336&task=knowledge&questionID=152. If you still have questions, please contact DELTA s LearnTech help desk at: learntech@ncsu.edu (919) 513-7094