How to Understand How Browsers Work

Web browsers make browsing the Internet an enjoyable and efficient experience. Whether you use the Internet several times a week or several times a day, it's only natural to wonder how these pieces of code show us the sights and sounds we want to experience. You can appreciate your Web browser a little more when you understand a bit of its history.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Learn the History of Web Browsers

1. Know that the world's first Web browser was developed in 1990 by Tim Berners-Lee. It was called the World Wide Web. Learn more about the early history of Web browsers at LivingInternet.com (see Resources below).

2. Learn about what were called the 'Browser Wars.' Netscape and Microsoft began stiff competition that ended in 1998 as Netscape began to decline in user popularity. QuirksMode.com offers more information on this time period in browser history (see Resources below).

3. Understand that Mozilla was created by Netscape as an open sourcing product. Mozilla Firefox was developed in 2004 and continues to grow in popularity. To download Firefox, visit the Mozilla Web site (see Resources below).

Learn How Web Browsers Work

4. Learn how your Web browser analyzes each URL you visit. URLs are broken up into 3 pieces. First, your Web browser determines the protocol, which is 'http.' This means that you would like to use a Web page communications page.

5. Understand that your Web browser will then communicate with a domain name server to learn the IP address for the Web site you want to see.

6. Know the last part of a Web address, such as 'about.asp' determines the specific part of the Web site that you would like to access.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're going to change your browser, be sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements posted on the browser's download page.
• To get help using a particular browser, open the Help menu in your browser window or visit the manufacturer's Web site and read troubleshooting guides or FAQs.
• After you choose the Web browser that you would like to use, remember to upgrade your browser to the newest version when it's available. You will protect your personal information and your computer with the newest developments in secure Web browsing.
• These steps were written using a PC with Windows XP. Some steps may differ if you're running a different operating system.