The Purpose of an Internet Browser

Web addresses are how browsers find websites.

Internet browsers are the tools we use to navigate the web. They connect to servers across the world, download the data we want, and then translate it into a visible image.

HTML

When a browser opens a web page, the page is not downloaded as a full image. Web pages are create with a code called HyperText Markup Language (HTML). HTML is how websites tell Web browsers how a Web page is structured and where to display pictures, text and other items on the page.

Translating HTML

Different browsers may translate HTML slightly differently. Many browsers try to distinguish themselves by incorporating special features that can be used by websites. This can sometimes cause problems, allowing only specific browsers to view a website.

Browser Extensions

Many browsers now allow you to download add-ons, increasing the functionality of the browser. Some extensions, like Adobe Flash, are required to view certain websites. Others, such as a bookmark manager, may simply add tools that make the browser easier to use.

References

• University of Maryland: Browser History
• W3: Getting started with HTML