What Is a Browser?
Browsers are applications that allow you to access websites. Common examples are Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Safari, and Firefox. Web browsers can be used on a variety of devices, including computers, mobile phones, and tablets.
We recommend using Google Chrome or Firefox to access UF websites.
What Is a Browser’s Cache?
The purpose of a browser cache is to temporarily store copies of web pages, images, and other resources to improve loading times when you revisit these websites. By caching files locally, the browser can quickly display them without needing to fetch them from the Internet again, making your browsing experience faster and more efficient.
What Are a Browser’s Cookies?
A browser cookie is a small file that a website saves on your device to remember information about your preferences and actions. It helps enhance your web experience by storing data such as login information and saving items in your cart, making it more convenient to navigate and interact with websites. It’s like having a personalized assistant who remembers your choices, so you don’t have to provide the same information repeatedly when you go to the same websites again.
When Should I Clear My Cache and Cookies?
If your cache and cookies become outdated or the data is corrupted, you may notice the following errors or issues.
- You receive a "STALE REQUEST" error on a UF web page.
- When you attempt to log in, you get looped back to a previous page, even though you did not click the back button.
- The webpage you are trying to reach is blank, or images are missing.
- The error message or issue you are experiencing only occurs in one browser. When you switch to a private/incognito window or use a different browser, the error goes away.
How to Clear Your Browser’s Cache and Cookies
The following browsers are supported for UF websites. Click the links below for instructions on clearing cache and cookies for each.
FireFox
Google Chrome
Microsoft Edge
Safari (iOS)
Safari(MacOS)
Tip: When clearing cache and cookies, remember to select the longest option for the time frame to clear. For example, Everything or All Time. You will also need to fully close out of the browser and re-open it for the changes to take effect.
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For further assistance, please contact the UFIT Help Desk.