Web Browsers | Browser Settings, Add-ons, Plug-ins & Cookies | Complete Notes | CBSE Class 12 Informatics Practices (2026–27)
Class 12 · Informatics Practices
Web Browsers | Browser Settings, Add-ons, Plug-ins & Cookies
A web browser is one of the most commonly used software applications on computers and smartphones. It enables users to access websites, search for information, watch videos, use online applications, and communicate over the Internet.
Modern web browsers provide several useful features such as bookmarks, browsing history, downloads, extensions, private browsing, and security settings to improve the browsing experience.
What is a Web Browser?
A Web Browser is a software application used to access, retrieve, display, and interact with web pages and websites available on the Internet.
How Does a Web Browser Work?
User │ Types URL │ Browser │ Internet │ Web Server │ HTML/CSS/Images │ Browser Displays Webpage
When a user enters a URL, the browser sends a request to the web server. The server returns the webpage files, and the browser interprets them to display the webpage.
Popular Web Browsers
| Browser | Developer | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Fast, secure, supports many extensions | |
| Microsoft Edge | Microsoft | Integrated with Windows, efficient performance |
| Mozilla Firefox | Mozilla Foundation | Open source, privacy-focused |
| Apple Safari | Apple | Optimized for macOS and iOS devices |
| Opera | Opera Software | Built-in VPN, ad blocker, battery saver |
Common Features of a Web Browser
- Address Bar (URL Bar)
- Navigation Buttons (Back, Forward, Refresh)
- Tabs
- Bookmarks
- Downloads
- Browsing History
- Password Manager
- Private/Incognito Browsing
Browser Settings
Browser settings allow users to customize security, privacy, appearance, downloads, notifications, and other browsing preferences.
Common Browser Settings
| Setting | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Homepage | Sets the page that opens when the browser starts. |
| Search Engine | Chooses the default search engine. |
| Downloads | Changes the download location. |
| Privacy | Controls cookies, tracking, and permissions. |
| Security | Protects users from unsafe websites. |
| Notifications | Allows or blocks website notifications. |
Bookmarks
A Bookmark is a saved shortcut to a webpage. It helps users quickly revisit frequently used websites without typing the URL again.
Example: Saving the CBSE website or CodeStep Academy homepage as a bookmark.
Browsing History
The browser automatically records the list of websites visited by the user. This record is called Browsing History.
History helps users reopen previously visited webpages but may also reveal browsing activity to others using the same device.
Downloads
Browsers allow users to download files such as PDFs, images, videos, software, and documents from websites. Downloaded files are usually stored in the computer's default Downloads folder unless changed in browser settings.
Add-ons and Extensions
Add-ons or Extensions are small software components that add new features or enhance the functionality of a web browser.
Examples
- Ad Blockers
- Grammar Checkers
- Password Managers
- Dark Mode Extensions
- Language Translators
Advantages
- Improves productivity.
- Adds new browser features.
- Enhances security and privacy.
- Customizes browsing experience.
Plug-ins
A Plug-in is a software component that enables the browser to display or handle specific types of content that it cannot process on its own.
In the past, plug-ins such as Adobe Flash Player and Java Plug-in were widely used. Modern browsers now support most web technologies directly, so plug-ins are used much less frequently.
Difference Between Add-ons and Plug-ins
| Add-ons / Extensions | Plug-ins |
|---|---|
| Add new browser features. | Enable support for specific content or technologies. |
| Installed from browser stores. | Often installed separately. |
| Improve user experience. | Provide functionality not built into the browser. |
| Example: Ad blocker | Example: Adobe Flash Player (legacy) |
Cookies
Cookies are small text files stored by a website in the user's browser. They help websites remember user preferences, login information, and browsing activity.
Uses of Cookies
- Remember login details.
- Save language preferences.
- Store shopping cart items.
- Personalize website content.
Advantages
- Faster login.
- Improved user experience.
- Personalized browsing.
Disadvantages
- May reduce privacy.
- Can be used for tracking user activity.
Browser Cache
The Cache is temporary storage used by browsers to save images, web pages, and other files. Cached files allow frequently visited websites to load faster because the browser does not need to download the same resources again.
Private / Incognito Browsing
Private or Incognito mode allows users to browse without saving browsing history, cookies, or temporary files on the local device after the session ends. However, it does not make users anonymous to websites, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), or network administrators.
Real-Life Applications
| Feature | Application |
|---|---|
| Bookmarks | Save frequently visited educational websites. |
| Cookies | Remember login credentials. |
| Extensions | Improve productivity and browsing experience. |
| Downloads | Download notes, assignments, and software. |
| Incognito Mode | Browse without saving local history. |
Common Errors
| Mistake | Correct Concept |
|---|---|
| Browser and Search Engine are the same. | A browser displays websites, while a search engine helps users find information on the web. |
| Cookies are always harmful. | Most cookies improve user experience, although some may be used for tracking. |
| Incognito mode hides users from everyone. | It only prevents local storage of browsing history and cookies after the session ends. |
| Extensions and Plug-ins are identical. | Extensions add browser features, while plug-ins provide support for specific content or technologies. |
Quick Revision
| Concept | Remember |
|---|---|
| Web Browser | Software used to access websites |
| Bookmarks | Saved webpage shortcuts |
| Extensions | Add browser features |
| Plug-ins | Support specific content (legacy use) |
| Cookies | Store user preferences and session data |
| Cache | Temporary files for faster loading |
| Incognito Mode | Does not save local browsing history after the session |
CBSE Exam Tips
- A web browser is software used to access websites and web applications.
- Do not confuse a web browser with a search engine. Examples of browsers include Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Opera.
- Cookies remember user preferences and login information.
- Extensions add new features to a browser, while plug-ins provide support for specific technologies.
- Incognito mode does not make Internet browsing completely anonymous; it only prevents local browsing data from being stored after the session ends.
Summary
Web browsers are essential software applications that allow users to access and interact with websites on the Internet. Modern browsers include features such as bookmarks, downloads, browsing history, extensions, cookies, cache management, and private browsing to improve usability and security. Understanding these concepts helps users browse the Internet efficiently and safely and is an important part of the CBSE Class 12 Informatics Practices syllabus.