What is Cache and Cookies?
Each time you access a file through your web browser, the browser caches (i.e., stores) it. Thus, the browser doesn’t have to newly retrieve files (including any images on the page) from the remote web site each time you click the Back or Forward buttons. You should periodically clear the cache to allow your browser to function more efficiently.
A cookie is a file created by a web browser, at the request of a website that is stored on the computer. These files typically store user-specific information such as selections in a form, shopping cart contents, or authentication data. Browsers will normally clear cookies that reach a certain age, but clearing them manually may solve problems with websites or your browser.
Browser History is a log of sites that you visit. When you press a browser’s Back button, you are moving back one entry the history log. Browsers will normally clear history at regular intervals, but you may want to clear it manually for privacy reasons.
Helpful Hints
- Before you begin, close multiple browser windows leaving only one window open.
- After you clear cache you may want to set the browser to automatically clear cache when you close the browser. After changing your settings, remember to close and then re-open your browser to refresh the changes.
- To get to the Tools menu in the browser, press Alt+T once in the browser
Chrome
Mac OS
- Navigate to the Chrome menu at the top left of your screen.
- Select Chrome.
- Select Settings.
- Navigate to and select Privacy and Security menu item.
- Select Delete Browsing Data.
- Select or deselect browsing data you do or do not want deleted.
- Select Delete Data.
Internet Explorer
Mac OS
- Select the Settings icon in top right corner
- Select Internet Options.
- Navigate to and select the General menu item.
- Navigate to and select Browsing History.
- Select Delete.
Firefox
Mac OS
- Click the Firefox button at the top of the browser window
- Select Preferences and then the Privacy & Security tab.
- Navigate to History section.
- Select Clear History button.
- Select or deselect browsing data you do or do not want deleted.
- Select Clear.