How to Enable Cookies in Firefox

When it comes to surfing the Internet, cookies are not what you might think they are. Cookies are pieces of text placed on a Web surfer's computer by a Web site for possible future use by that particular Web site. If you, the surfer, go back and visit that Web site again, the server for that site will grab that piece of text to identify or track you. You can enable and configure cookies in Firefox however you like.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access

Locate Cookies Within Firefox

1. Access your cookies. From the top menu bar, open the Tools menu (Windows) or the Firefox menu (Mac). When a drop-down menu appears, pick Options for Windows and Preferences for a Mac.

2. Click on the Privacy icon. Look for the box labeled Cookies.

Enable Cookies in Firefox

1. Check the box next to 'Accept Cookies From Sites.' Scroll through the menu next to the words 'Keep Until' and choose the appropriate option.

2. Use the 'Exceptions' button to make specific exceptions to the rule to accept all cookies. Click this button, and you'll see a dialog box appear. Type the address of a Web site that you don't want to accept a cookie from. Once you've typed in the URL, select 1 of the 3 buttons 'Block,' 'Allow For Session,' or 'Allow.'

3. Close the box and then click on 'Show Cookies' to see all the current cookies on your computer. Finally, to enable cookies in Firefox click 'OK' for Windows or close the preferences box for a Mac.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you've got Firefox's newest version by visiting the download page (see Resources below) on Mozilla.

• Check your computer to see if it meets the minimum system requirements for the Firefox browser. Windows owners will need at least Windows 98 or higher, 50 MB of free disk space, a 233 Mhz processor and 64 MB of RAM. Mac users should have a 233 Mhz processor, 64 MB of RAM, 50 MB of free disk and Mac OS X 10.2 or higher. Linux users need the Linux kernel 2.2.14, a 233 Mhz processor, 64 MB of RAM and 50 MB of free disk space.

• Know that Firefox is equipped with many security features to protect you while you surf. Your private data can be cleared whenever you like, based upon the options you choose.

• Learn about the Firefox browser by reading the tips and tricks located on the support page (see Resources below).

• This guide was written for Firefox version 2.0.0.2. If you are using a prior version, consider upgrading or be aware that some or all of the steps might not apply.