How to Test Browser Settings

Anyone can check browser settings.

Web browsers are what allow us access to the internet. Whether your browser is Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, Chrome, Opera or Safari, knowing your browser settings is important. These settings contain information about your computer's security, plug-ins, and system details.



An upgrade may be needed if your browser does not meet certain requirements needed to download files from a Web page. Without certain upgrades, accessing particular sites will not be possible. Fortunately, testing browser settings is quite simple to do. For each of these browsers, completing only two or three steps will successfully accomplish the task.

Instructions

1. Click the Safari browser icon. Then click "Edit" and select "Preferences."

2. Click on the Firefox browser icon and scroll to "Preferences."

3. Click on the Internet Explorer browser icon. Click "Tools" and scroll down to "Internet Options."

4. Click on the Opera browser icon. Then click "Tools" and scroll down to "Preferences."

5. Click on the Chrome browser icon. Click "Options." Select "Under the Hood."

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your browser version up to date. This allows for easier file and video downloads.

• The pop-up blocker, which blocks pop-up ads, is an important item found in your browser settings. What seems to be a denial of access to a site may sometimes be just the action of your pop-up blocker.

• You may also check your browser settings at the BrowserHawk website (see Resources). Simply enter the Web address and click "Enter," and the site lists the version of your browser, display and layout, security, plug-in information, connection information and your browser's java settings. Searching for your settings yourself is best. You cannot make changes in your settings from BrowserHawk.

• If you are not satisfied with your current browser, it is possible to switch to another one. Certain browsers, like Safari (which was once only compatible with Mac computers), are now available for other systems.

References

• New College Nottingham: Changing your Safari browser settings
• U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team: Securing Your Web Browser

Resources

• BrowserHawk: Automatic browser search