Cookies and Cache Defined
When you browse web sites, your computer stores files for later use as a means of enhancing your browsing experience.
One type of file is a "temporary internet file," stored in the browser cache. These files consist of images, text, or sounds from pages you've visited. Instead of downloading those files again when you revisit the site, your computer uses the ones it's already stored.This repository results in faster browsing.
Another type of file is a cookie. A cookie is information specific to your visit to a web page. It allows a site to deliver personalized content. For example, you might enter your zip code on a weather web page. The next time you visit that page, it automatically displays weather for your zip code.
Clearing the Browser Cache and Cookies
Internet Explorer | Firefox (Windows) | Firefox (Mac)
If you have problems accessing a web page or getting the latest content, we recommend you delete your cache and clear your cookies (for more information about these, read “Cookies and Cache defined”).
Below are instructions for Internet Explorer and Firefox. If you have an older version of one of the browsers listed or difficulties with the instructions below, contact OTS for assistance. If you're using a different browser, you can find instructions by searching "clearing the cache and cookies in [your browser name]" online.
Internet Explorer 8, 9, and 10
- Open a browser window.
- Click the Tools icon in the upper right hand corner.
- On the menu that pops up, go to Safety then click Delete browsing history...
Note: You can also access from the menu bar Tools > Internet Options > Delete in the Browsing history section - Uncheck Preserve Favorites website data. Check Temporary internet files and Cookies.
- Click Delete. A confirmation will appear on your screen when the file deletion is completed.
Firefox (Windows)
- Open a browser window.
- On the menu bar at the top, go to History then click Clear Recent History...
Note: In older versions of Firefox, Clear Recent History... can be accessed by clicking Tools in the menu bar. - In Time range to clear, select Everything.
- Check Cookies and Cache.
- Click Clear Now. The Clear All History window will close automatically once it's finished.
Firefox (Mac)
- Open a browser window.
- On the menu bar at the top, click Tools.
- Click Clear Recent History...
- In Time range to clear, select Everything.
- Check Cookies and Cache.
- Click Clear Now. The Clear All History window will close automatically once it's finished.