I receive a "HTTP 500 - Internal Server Error" when I try to access an ASP or ASP.net page

An "HTTP 500 - Internal Server Error" is not a useful message because it doesn't tell us much about what is happening.  In most cases it indicates there a bug in your code or a configuration error somewhere..

Internet Explorer has a feature that blocks the true error message from being displayed. In order to display the true error message, follow the instructions below:
 

1. Open Internet Explorer
2. Go to "Tools" --> "Internet Options"
3. Go to "Advanced" tab
4. Uncheck "Show Friendly Error Message"
5. Click "OK"
6. Reload the page, you should now see a more detailed error message.