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7.1.3 Web Browser
A web browser is software that enables us to view web pages. A web browser may be opened from a desktop computer, a
mobile, a smart TV, a car navigation system, etc. Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Edge (formerly Internet Explorer) are
the most commonly used web browsers. A web browser sends a request to the server for the requested web page. At the
other end, the web server responds with a web page in HTML format, and the browser interprets the HTML page received
from the server and displays its content in the proper format. Each browser offers its unique features, performance, and
user interface, allowing individuals to choose the content based on their preferences and requirements.
Browser Settings
Web browsers provide a range of customizable settings to enhance the browsing experience. These settings allow
users to control privacy preferences, manage cache and cookies, adjust security levels, modify display settings, and
personalize browser themes and appearances. Browser settings provide flexibility and control over how users interact
with websites and manage their online activities. Fig 7.2 shows the Google Chrome settings.
Fig 7.2
Add-ons and Plug-ins
The functionality of a web browser may be enhanced by adding to it specialised software in the form of plugins and
extensions. Add-ons and plug-ins are additional software components that extend the functionality of web browsers.
Users can choose from a vast library of add-ons and plug-ins to tailor their browsing experience and increase productivity.
For example, plugins are required for displaying pdf files, videos, and animations.
Cookies
When the user browses the Internet, the web server sends the data to the browser to be stored in the browser directory.
This small piece of data is known as a cookie and is also termed as a browser cookie and web cookie. Cookies are actually
encrypted text files stored by the server in the browser's directory. They are generally used for the identification of
the user so that when the user visits the website for the next time, it may be able to determine the previous activity
log of the user. At the time when a user visits the website again, the browser sends these cookies stored in the file to
the website server. For example, when you log in to a site and provide your username and password, the server store
or stores that data in the form of cookies in the directory of the browser. Next time when you visit that website again,
the server authenticates you without any need to reenter your username and password. Also, sometimes you are able
to see the advertisement of the same and related products browsed by you earlier. It is only because of the cookies
stored in your system. Thus, cookies help the server to present a customized web page to the user.
In conclusion, web browsers are indispensable tools for accessing and navigating the Internet. With a variety of options
available, users can choose the browser that suits their needs. Customizable settings, add-ons, and plug-ins enhance
browsing experiences, while cookies play a vital role in personalization and data management. Understanding these
aspects allows users to optimize their web browsing and make the most of their online activities.
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