I Can Learn Computer Skills Blog

What Is This Thing Called Cache, Cookies, & History

Cache
Did you know that every time you visit a website through your web browser, your browser caches it?  This means it stores it in a file, such as HTML pages and images.  These are also known as Temporary Internet Files.  By storing these files, your browser doesn't have to newly retrieve files from the remote web site each time you click Back or Forward or if you re-visit the website.  Over time these files pile up and occasionally, can prevent you from seeing updated content, or cause your computer to run slow.

Cookies
A cookie is a file created by your web browser, at the request of the web site you are visiting, that is then stored on your computer.  This may be done because the website you are visiting wants to keep track of which pages you view or on-line shopping so you don’t have to re-enter your information over and over again.  Accepting a cookie does not give that website access to your computer or personal information, unless you have given it through on-line shopping.   It is also not possible to use a cookie to deliver a virus to your computer.

Sometimes advertisers on a page will store a ‘tracking’ cookie on your computer to track your internet usage.  Have you ever purchased something online and then noticed when you go to other sites, you are being offered similar specials of an item you recently purchased, by other advertisers?  This is because of a ‘tracking’ cookie that was placed on your computer by a third party.  Although it cannot harm your computer, some say it is an infringement of your privacy.

History
Your web browsing history is a list of pages you have visited over the course of time.

Be sure to check out my latest Newsletter on how to clear the Cache, Cookies and History.  Over a period of time, these files may gum up the works and cause your computer to run slow.  I will be posting that newsletter soon!