Cache (noun): A hidden storage space.
That’s the definition you’ll get in the dictionary. When it comes to browsers, browser cache is something similar but not so hidden. The browser cache is a special folder hidden among other folders that stores web page elements that the browser thinks it will need again. It can be graphic files (banners, buttons, icons, brochures, etc.), photos, script files, and even HTML pages.
Browser cache is not just a trash can but a mechanism to speed up the way we browse the web. Every website we visit has certain common elements such as logos, navigation buttons, GIF animation files, script files, etc. The browser downloads each element (also commonly known as temporary Internet files) when we move from one page to another and back, it makes no sense.
Page elements are downloaded when we visit a website and the browser checks its cache directory for duplicates as we browse the website. If a copy exists, the browser will not reload the same file, thus greatly speeding up browsing. (courtesy image – tonynetone)
Cookies (noun): Any variety of small flat cakes.
Incorrect! When it comes to computer jargon, a cookie is a short line of text that a website places on your computer’s hard drive when you visit a website. Technically, it is a flat text file that supports client-server communication and helps with session management and tracking. With the help of cookies, a website can track a user’s browsing session.
For example, cookies are used frequently to store user preferences. Another common use is to rotate online ads according to the user’s browsing activity. Cookies are plain text files, so they cannot contain viruses or any other malicious programming code.
Do we need to clear browser cache and remove cookies?
Simple answer – Yes. But you don’t need to do it too often if your browser doesn’t give you nightmares.
“Clear browser cache” is one of the more common help instructions you will receive from troubleshooters. The cache directory has a defined size and limit. If the number of items it stores is too large, your current browsing session may be affected as page elements may be damaged. More importantly, you should clear your browser cache to get the latest version of a website or a program. An overloaded browser cache can also slow down the browser because by default the cache looks to the cache directory for downloaded files.
Older cache files and cookies also need to be cleared before you access secure areas like payment gateways or shopping carts. “Session has expired” is a common message if the old browser cache and cookies have not been cleared.
Different browsers have different ways of clearing cache and cookies. But all of them are easy processes with few clicks. For instance, here’s how you can clear cache and cookies in Firefox.
In the end, it all boils down to house cleaning and good computer maintenance.
Categories: How to
Source: thpttranhungdao.edu.vn/en/
