Mcafee Interfering with Internet Connection – How to Fix the Issue

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection, it’s possible that Mcafee, which is a popular antivirus software, might be interfering. While Mcafee is designed to protect your computer from online threats, sometimes it can unintentionally cause disruptions to your internet access.

One common problem that users encounter is that Mcafee’s firewall settings can be overly strict, blocking certain applications or websites from accessing the internet. This can lead to frustration and inconvenience, especially if you rely heavily on a stable and uninterrupted internet connection.

To address this issue, it is important to properly configure Mcafee to ensure that it does not interfere with your internet connection. One troubleshooting tip is to check Mcafee’s firewall settings and make sure that the necessary programs and websites are allowed to access the internet. However, be cautious in granting permissions, as this can potentially compromise the security of your computer.

Another possible solution is to temporarily disable Mcafee and check if your internet connection improves. This will help you determine if Mcafee is indeed the culprit. If the problem disappears when Mcafee is turned off, you may need to further tweak its settings or consider using a different antivirus software that is less likely to interfere with your internet connection.

In conclusion, while Mcafee is an effective antivirus software, it can sometimes interfere with your internet connection. By troubleshooting and adjusting its settings, you can ensure a smoother online experience without compromising the security of your computer.

Troubleshooting Tips for Resolving McAfee Interfering with Internet Connection

If you’re experiencing issues with your internet connection due to McAfee interfering, there are several troubleshooting tips you can try to resolve the problem. McAfee is a popular antivirus software that can sometimes cause conflicts with network settings, resulting in internet connectivity problems.

1. Disable McAfee Firewall

One possible solution is to temporarily disable the McAfee firewall. This can help determine if the firewall is causing the interference. To do this, open the McAfee software and navigate to the firewall settings. Disable the firewall and check if your internet connection is restored. If it is, you may need to adjust the firewall settings or consider using a different software firewall.

2. Disable McAfee Web Protection

Another troubleshooting tip is to disable the McAfee web protection feature. This feature can sometimes block certain websites or interfere with the connection. Open the McAfee software and find the web protection settings. Disable this feature and check if your internet connection improves. If it does, you may need to configure the web protection settings or consider using alternative web protection software.

3. Update McAfee Software

Ensure that you have the latest version of the McAfee software installed. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues with network settings, resulting in internet connectivity problems. Open the McAfee software and check for any available updates. Install the updates and restart your computer to see if this resolves the issue.

4. Reset Network Settings

If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, you can try resetting your network settings. Open the Network and Internet settings on your computer and find the option to reset network settings. This will restore your network settings to their default configuration and may help resolve any conflicts caused by McAfee.

5. Contact McAfee Support

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips above and are still experiencing issues with your internet connection due to McAfee interference, it is recommended to contact McAfee Support for further assistance. They will be able to provide specific guidance and help resolve the issue.

Following these troubleshooting tips should help you resolve any issues with McAfee interfering with your internet connection. Remember to always keep your antivirus software updated and ensure that it doesn’t interfere with your network settings for a seamless online experience.

Check Mcafee Settings

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection and suspect that Mcafee might be interfering, it’s important to check your Mcafee settings. Mcafee’s security features can sometimes cause conflicts with network connections, resulting in slow or no internet access.

Disable Firewall

One of the most common reasons for Mcafee interfering with your internet connection is its firewall. The firewall is designed to protect your device by blocking unauthorized incoming and outgoing network traffic. However, it can also mistakenly block legitimate network connections.

To check if the firewall is causing the issue, you can temporarily disable it. Open the Mcafee application, navigate to the Firewall settings, and turn off the firewall. Then, try accessing the internet to see if the problem persists. Keep in mind that disabling the firewall temporarily may leave your device vulnerable to online threats, so make sure to re-enable it afterwards.

Adjust Web Protection Settings

Mcafee’s Web Protection feature may also interfere with your internet connection. This feature is designed to block access to potentially harmful websites and protect your online privacy. However, it can sometimes mistakenly identify safe websites as threats, leading to connectivity issues.

To troubleshoot this, you can modify the Web Protection settings. Open the Mcafee application, go to the Web Protection settings, and check if any websites are being blocked. If you find any legitimate websites in the blocked list, you can manually allow them. Additionally, you can try temporarily disabling the Web Protection feature to see if it resolves the connectivity problem.

It’s important to note that modifying Mcafee settings may impact your overall security, so proceed with caution. If you are unsure about making changes, it’s recommended to consult with Mcafee support or a professional for further assistance.

Summary:

When dealing with Mcafee interfering with the internet connection, checking the Mcafee settings is crucial. Disable the firewall temporarily and adjust the Web Protection settings to troubleshoot the issue. However, always prioritize your online security and consult with experts if needed.

Update Mcafee Software

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection due to Mcafee interfering, one of the troubleshooting steps you can take is to update the Mcafee software. Keeping your Mcafee software up to date ensures that you have the latest bug fixes, security updates, and compatibility improvements.

To update your Mcafee software, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Open Mcafee Software

Launch the Mcafee software on your computer. You can typically find the Mcafee icon in the system tray or by searching for it in your computer’s applications.

Step 2: Check for Updates

Once the Mcafee software is open, look for the “Update” or “Check for Updates” option. Click on this option to initiate the update process.

If there are any available updates, the Mcafee software will download and install them automatically. This may take some time, depending on your internet connection speed and the size of the update.

Note: Make sure you have a stable internet connection before starting the update process.

Step 3: Restart your Computer

After the update is complete, it is recommended to restart your computer. This will ensure that the updates are fully applied and any changes take effect.

By updating your Mcafee software, you can resolve any known issues and improve the overall performance of the software. This might help in fixing any interference with your internet connection.

If you are still experiencing issues with your internet connection after updating the Mcafee software, it is recommended to reach out to Mcafee support for further assistance.

Disable Mcafee Firewall

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection and suspect that Mcafee is interfering, you may want to consider temporarily disabling the Mcafee Firewall. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Open Mcafee Security Center: Locate the Mcafee icon on your taskbar or desktop and double-click to open it.
2. Navigate to Firewall settings: Depending on the version of Mcafee you are using, you may find the Firewall settings in different locations. Look for options like “Settings” or “Firewall Settings” in the Mcafee Security Center.
3. Disable Firewall: Once you have accessed the Firewall settings, you should see an option to disable the Firewall. Click on this option to turn off the Firewall temporarily.
4. Test your internet connection: After disabling the Mcafee Firewall, it is recommended to test your internet connection to see if the issue persists. If the problem is resolved, it indicates that the Firewall was interfering with your connection.

Note: Disabling your Firewall can leave your computer vulnerable to security threats. It is essential to re-enable the Firewall once you have identified the cause of the issue. If you continue experiencing problems with your internet connection, consider contacting Mcafee Support for further assistance.

Restart Your Router

If you are experiencing internet connection issues due to McAfee interference, one of the troubleshooting steps you can try is to restart your router. Restarting your router can help resolve any temporary glitches or conflicts that may be affecting your connection.

To restart your router, follow these steps:

1. Locate your router and identify the power cable connected to it.
2. Unplug the power cable from the router.
3. Wait for about 10-15 seconds before plugging the power cable back in.
4. Once you have plugged in the power cable, wait for the router to power up and establish a connection.

After restarting your router, give it a few minutes to fully reconnect to the internet. Check if the internet connection issues have been resolved. If not, you can proceed with additional troubleshooting steps.

If restarting the router does not resolve the problem, it is recommended to contact your internet service provider (ISP) for further assistance. They may be able to troubleshoot the connection issues or provide additional guidance.

Disable Other Security Software

In some cases, other security software installed on your computer can interfere with McAfee and cause issues with your internet connection. Therefore, it is recommended to disable any other security software temporarily to check if it resolves the interfering connection issue with McAfee.

To disable other security software, follow these steps:

1.	Open the software that you want to disable.
2.	Look for an option to temporarily disable the software or turn off its real-time protection.
3.	Click on that option and confirm the action, if prompted.
4.	Once the software is disabled, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

After restarting your computer, check if the issue with McAfee interfering with your internet connection still persists. If the issue is resolved, it indicates that the other security software was indeed causing the interference. In such cases, consider permanently uninstalling the conflicting software or contacting their support for further assistance.

Clear DNS Cache

If you are experiencing internet connection issues due to Mcafee interfering with your connection, clearing the DNS cache may help resolve the problem. DNS (Domain Name System) cache stores information about previously visited websites, and sometimes this information can become outdated or corrupted, leading to connectivity issues.

To clear the DNS cache, you can follow these steps:

Operating System	Command
Windows	Open the Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key + R, type “cmd” and press Enter. In the Command Prompt window, type “ipconfig /flushdns” and press Enter.
Mac	Open Terminal by going to Applications > Utilities > Terminal. In the Terminal window, type “sudo dscacheutil -flushcache” and press Enter. You may be prompted for your administrator password.
Linux	Open Terminal and type “sudo service nscd restart” or “sudo /etc/init.d/nscd restart” depending on your Linux distribution. Press Enter to execute the command.

After you have cleared the DNS cache, try connecting to the internet again and see if the issue has been resolved. If you are still experiencing problems, you may need to troubleshoot further or seek help from a professional.

Reset TCP/IP Settings

If you suspect that McAfee is interfering with your internet connection, it may be worth trying to reset the TCP/IP settings on your computer. This can help resolve any issues related to network connectivity.

To reset the TCP/IP settings, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the Command Prompt

Click on the Start menu and type “cmd” in the search bar. Right-click on the Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator”.

Step 2: Run the Reset Command

In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

netsh int ip reset

This command will reset the TCP/IP settings on your computer.

Step 3: Restart your Computer

After running the command, restart your computer to apply the changes.

By resetting the TCP/IP settings, you are essentially clearing any custom configurations or settings that may be causing interference with your internet connection. This can help resolve issues caused by McAfee or other factors.

Note: Resetting the TCP/IP settings may also remove any VPN configurations or other network-related settings on your computer. Make sure to take note of any custom settings before resetting.

If the internet connection issues persist even after resetting the TCP/IP settings, you may need to further troubleshoot the problem or contact your internet service provider for assistance.

If you suspect that McAfee is the cause of the interference, you can try temporarily disabling the antivirus software to see if it resolves the issue. If disabling McAfee resolves the internet connection problem, you may need to adjust the settings or consider switching to a different antivirus program.

Check Network Adapter Settings

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection due to McAfee interfering, one possible solution is to check your network adapter settings. The network adapter is responsible for connecting your device to the internet, so ensuring its settings are correct can help resolve the issue.

Resetting Network Adapter

First, try resetting the network adapter to its default settings. This can be done by following these steps:

1. Go to the Control Panel on your device.
2. Click on “Network and Internet” or “Network and Sharing Center”.
3. Choose “Change adapter settings” from the left side menu.
4. Right-click on the network adapter you are currently using and select “Disable”.
5. Wait for a few seconds and then right-click on the same network adapter again, this time selecting “Enable”.

This process will reset the network adapter settings and may help resolve any issues caused by McAfee interference.

Updating Network Adapter Driver

If resetting the network adapter did not solve the problem, you can try updating the network adapter’s driver. Outdated or incompatible drivers can sometimes cause connectivity issues. To update the driver, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Control Panel on your device.
2. Click on “Device Manager”.
3. Expand the “Network adapters” category.
4. Right-click on the network adapter you are using and select “Update driver”.
5. Choose the option to automatically search for updated driver software.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the driver update process.

After updating the network adapter driver, check if the internet connection issues persist. If they do, you may need to contact McAfee support for further assistance.

Use an Ethernet Cable

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection and suspect that McAfee is interfering, one option is to try using an Ethernet cable instead of relying on a wireless connection.

When you connect your device directly to the modem or router with an Ethernet cable, you eliminate any potential interference caused by wireless signals. This can help determine if the problem lies with your McAfee software or if there are other factors affecting your internet connection.

To use an Ethernet cable, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check for a free Ethernet port

Make sure your device has an available Ethernet port. Most desktop computers and laptops have built-in Ethernet ports, labeled with an Ethernet symbol or the word “Ethernet.”

Step 2: Connect the Ethernet cable

Locate the Ethernet port on your device and the modem or router. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on your device and the other end into the Ethernet port on the modem or router.

Ensure that the connection is secure and that the cable is not damaged or loose. A loose or damaged cable can result in a poor connection.

Step 3: Test the internet connection

After connecting the Ethernet cable, test your internet connection to see if the issue persists. If the connection is stable and working properly, it indicates that McAfee may be interfering with your wireless connection.

In this case, you may consider adjusting the settings in your McAfee software or seeking further assistance from McAfee support to resolve the interference issue.

Using an Ethernet cable provides a direct and reliable connection, which can help troubleshoot internet connectivity problems caused by McAfee interference.

Disable Mcafee WebAdvisor

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection and suspect that Mcafee WebAdvisor may be interfering, you can try disabling it to see if it resolves the problem. Mcafee WebAdvisor is a feature of the Mcafee antivirus software that analyzes website URLs and alerts you about potential risks.

Step 1: Open Mcafee Security Center

To disable Mcafee WebAdvisor, first, open the Mcafee Security Center on your computer. This can usually be done by locating the Mcafee icon in your system tray (bottom right corner of the screen) and right-clicking on it. From the context menu, select “Open Mcafee Security Center”.

Step 2: Access WebAdvisor Settings

Once the Mcafee Security Center is open, navigate to the “WebAdvisor” section. This can often be found under the “Privacy” or “Web and Email Protection” category.

Note: The exact location of the WebAdvisor settings may vary depending on the version of Mcafee software you have installed.

Step 3: Disable WebAdvisor

In the WebAdvisor settings, look for an option to disable or turn off WebAdvisor. This option may be labeled as “Disable”, “Turn Off”, or “Deactivate”. Click on the appropriate option to disable Mcafee WebAdvisor.

Note: Disabling WebAdvisor will disable its browsing protection features. Make sure to only disable it temporarily for troubleshooting purposes, and enable it again once the issue is resolved.

If disabling Mcafee WebAdvisor resolves the issues with your internet connection, it may be worth considering alternative web browsing protection tools or contacting Mcafee support for further assistance.

Update Network Drivers

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection due to McAfee interfering, it is possible that your network drivers are outdated or incompatible. To resolve this issue, follow these steps to update your network drivers:

Step 1: Identify your network adapter

First, you need to identify the network adapter installed on your computer. This can be done by opening the Device Manager. To open Device Manager, right-click on the Windows Start menu and select “Device Manager” from the menu.

Once Device Manager is open, expand the “Network adapters” category to see the list of network adapters installed on your computer.

Step 2: Find and download the latest drivers

After identifying your network adapter, you need to find and download the latest drivers for it. Visit the website of your computer manufacturer or the network adapter manufacturer to download the latest drivers.

Make sure to download the drivers that are compatible with your operating system and network adapter model.

Step 3: Install the updated drivers

Once the drivers are downloaded, locate the file you just downloaded and run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the updated drivers.

After the installation is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes.

Updating your network drivers can often resolve issues with internet connection interference caused by McAfee.

If you are still experiencing issues after updating the drivers, you may want to consider contacting McAfee support for further assistance.

Uninstall and Reinstall Mcafee

If you are experiencing internet issues and suspect that McAfee is interfering with your connection, you may want to consider uninstalling and reinstalling the software. Here are some steps you can follow to do so:

1. Disable McAfee: Open the McAfee application and navigate to the settings or preferences section. Look for an option to disable or turn off the antivirus software temporarily.
2. Uninstall McAfee: Go to the control panel on your computer and look for the “Programs” or “Programs and Features” section. Find McAfee in the list of installed programs and select it. Click on the “Uninstall” or “Remove” button to initiate the uninstallation process.
3. Restart your computer: Once the uninstallation is complete, restart your computer to ensure that any remnants of McAfee are completely removed from your system.
4. Download the latest version of McAfee: Visit the official McAfee website and download the latest version of the antivirus software. Make sure to choose the correct version for your operating system.
5. Install McAfee: Run the downloaded installer file to start the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Make sure to carefully review any options or settings during the installation to prevent any potential interference with your internet connection.
6. Enable McAfee: Once the installation is complete, open the McAfee application and navigate to the settings or preferences section. Enable or turn on the antivirus software to ensure that you are protected.

By uninstalling and reinstalling McAfee, you can refresh the software and potentially resolve any issues that were interfering with your internet connection.

Temporarily Disable Mcafee

If you suspect that Mcafee is interfering with your internet connection, you may want to temporarily disable it to troubleshoot the issue. Here are the steps to temporarily disable Mcafee:

1. Locate the Mcafee icon on your taskbar and right-click on it.
2. In the context menu that appears, select “Exit” or “Close” to exit Mcafee.
3. Mcafee should now be temporarily disabled. Test your internet connection to see if the issue persists.

If the issue is resolved after disabling Mcafee, it may indicate that the antivirus software was indeed causing the interference. You can then try adjusting the settings of Mcafee or contact their support for further assistance.

Run Network Troubleshooter

If McAfee is interfering with your internet connection, running the network troubleshooter can help identify and resolve any issues. The network troubleshooter is a built-in tool in Windows that can diagnose and fix common networking problems.

To run the network troubleshooter, follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and type “troubleshoot” in the search bar.
2. Select “Troubleshoot settings” from the search results.
3. In the Troubleshoot settings window, scroll down and click on “Network troubleshooter.”
4. Click the “Run the troubleshooter” button.
5. Wait for the troubleshooter to scan your network and detect any problems.
6. If any issues are found, follow the troubleshooter’s recommendations to fix them. This may involve resetting the network adapter or restarting your router.

Running the network troubleshooter can help resolve connectivity problems caused by McAfee or other factors. If the troubleshooter is unable to solve the issue, you may need to consider temporarily disabling McAfee or contacting McAfee support for further assistance.

Check for Malware Infections

If you suspect that McAfee is interfering with your internet connection, it’s important to also consider the possibility of malware infections. Malware can cause various issues with your computer, including disruptions to your internet connection.

To check for malware infections, follow these steps:

1. Open your McAfee antivirus software.
2. Navigate to the “Scan” or “Security” tab.
3. Select the option to perform a full system scan.
4. Let the scan run and patiently wait for it to complete.
5. If any malware is detected during the scan, follow the prompts to remove or quarantine the infected files.

It’s also a good idea to regularly update your McAfee antivirus software to ensure you have the latest virus definitions and protection against the newest threats.

Remember, even if your McAfee software is interfering with your internet connection, it’s crucial not to disable your antivirus protection completely. Doing so can leave your computer vulnerable to malware and other security threats. Instead, try troubleshooting the specific issue or reach out to McAfee support for further assistance.

Contact Mcafee Support

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection due to Mcafee interfering with it, contacting Mcafee Support is strongly recommended. They have a team of experts who can assist you in resolving this problem and getting your internet connection back up and running smoothly.

There are several ways to get in touch with Mcafee Support. Here are a few options:

1. Phone Support

You can call Mcafee’s customer support hotline to speak directly with a representative. They will guide you through the troubleshooting process and offer solutions specific to your issue. This option provides real-time assistance and is ideal for urgent matters.

2. Online Chat

Mcafee also offers an online chat feature on their website. This allows you to chat with a support agent who can help you troubleshoot the issue. It’s a convenient option if you prefer written communication or if you are unable to make a phone call.

3. Support Forums

Check out Mcafee’s support forums where you can find answers to frequently asked questions and solutions provided by both Mcafee experts and other users. You can also post your own question and wait for responses from the community. This can be a helpful resource if you prefer self-help or want to see if others have encountered and resolved similar issues.

Remember to provide as much information as possible when contacting Mcafee Support. This includes details about your internet connection issue and any error messages you may have encountered. The more information you can provide, the quicker and more accurately the support team can assist you in resolving the problem.

Use an Alternative Antivirus Program

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connection due to McAfee interfering, it may be time to consider using an alternative antivirus program. While McAfee is a well-known and trusted name in the cybersecurity industry, sometimes it can cause conflicts with other software and services, including your internet connection.

Switching to an alternative antivirus program can help resolve these issues and allow you to enjoy uninterrupted internet connectivity. Here are a few alternative antivirus programs you can consider:

1. Norton

Norton is a popular antivirus program that offers comprehensive protection against malware, viruses, and other online threats. It has a user-friendly interface and a range of advanced features to keep your devices and internet connection secure.

2. Avast

Avast is another excellent choice when it comes to antivirus programs. It provides real-time protection, email scanning, and robust web protection to block malicious websites and prevent any interference with your internet connection.

3. Kaspersky

Kaspersky is known for its strong malware detection capabilities and superior protection against cyber threats. It offers various features such as safe browsing, anti-phishing, and firewall protection to ensure your internet connection remains secure.

Before switching to an alternative antivirus program, it’s important to uninstall McAfee completely from your computer to avoid any conflicts. Once you have done that, you can install and set up the new antivirus program of your choice.

Remember to keep your chosen antivirus program updated regularly to benefit from the latest security patches and ensure optimal performance. Additionally, it’s a good practice to run regular scans to detect and eliminate any potential threats that might compromise your internet connection.

Antivirus Program	Key Features
Norton	Comprehensive protection, user-friendly interface
Avast	Real-time protection, web protection
Kaspersky	Strong malware detection, safe browsing

Вопрос-ответ:

Why is my Mcafee antivirus interfering with my internet connection?

There can be several reasons why Mcafee antivirus may interfere with your internet connection. One common reason is the firewall settings in Mcafee. If the firewall is blocking certain websites or network ports, it can disrupt your internet connection. Another reason could be outdated or conflicting software on your computer, which may cause conflicts with Mcafee and affect your internet connection. Lastly, it is possible that your Mcafee antivirus software itself is experiencing issues or glitches that are impacting your internet connection.

How can I troubleshoot the Mcafee antivirus interference with my internet connection?

There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve Mcafee antivirus interference with your internet connection. First, check the firewall settings in Mcafee and ensure that there are no restrictions or blocks on your internet access. You can also try disabling Mcafee temporarily to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists, try updating Mcafee to the latest version or reinstalling the software. Additionally, you can examine your computer for any conflicting software and uninstall or update it. If none of these steps work, contacting Mcafee support may be necessary.

Is there a way to fix Mcafee interfering with my internet connection without disabling the antivirus?

Yes, there are several ways to fix Mcafee interfering with your internet connection without disabling the antivirus. First, you can check the firewall settings in Mcafee and make sure they are not blocking your internet access. Additionally, you can try adding exceptions or exclusions in Mcafee for specific websites or programs that are experiencing connectivity problems. Another option is to update Mcafee to the latest version, as software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve such issues. If these steps do not work, contacting Mcafee support for further assistance is recommended.

Can other antivirus software cause internet connection issues like Mcafee?

Yes, other antivirus software can also cause internet connection issues similar to Mcafee. Like Mcafee, other antivirus programs may have firewall settings that block certain websites or network ports, leading to connectivity problems. Conflicts between antivirus software and other programs on your computer can also disrupt your internet connection. Additionally, outdated or corrupted antivirus software can cause issues with your internet connection. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your antivirus software is up to date and properly configured to avoid any interference with your internet connection.

Why does my internet connection work fine when Mcafee is disabled?

If your internet connection works fine when Mcafee is disabled, it indicates that Mcafee is causing the interference with your internet connection. When Mcafee is disabled, its firewall and other security features are turned off, allowing unrestricted access to the internet. This suggests that there might be a configuration issue or a conflict with some settings in Mcafee that is disrupting your internet connection. It is recommended to check and adjust the firewall settings, update Mcafee, or seek assistance from Mcafee support to resolve the issue while keeping the antivirus enabled.

Why does my McAfee antivirus software interfere with my internet connection?

There can be several reasons why McAfee antivirus software interferes with your internet connection. It could be due to a software glitch or a misconfiguration in the antivirus settings. Another possibility is that McAfee is blocking certain websites or applications that it deems as a security risk. In some cases, McAfee may also conflict with other security software or firewall settings on your computer.