Web browser information

What is a web browser?

A web browser is a computer application/program that you use to access the internet and view web pages such as the page you are viewing now.

What web browsers are available?

There are several web browsers available, whether for desktop computers or smartphones. Below is a list of the most popular or widely used web browsers:

Desktop/laptop

• Chrome (external website)
• Safari (external website)
• Firefox (external website)
• Internet Explorer (external website)

Mobile

Search for web browsers at:

• Apple App Store (external website)
• Google Play Store (external website)
• Windows Phone Store (external website) 

Why update your web browser?

Security - Protection from scams, viruses and phishing

Newer web browsers provide better protection from online scams, viruses, trojans, phishing, hacking, fraud and any other online threats. The web browsers are continually updated against new threats, meaning if you do not update, you are more likely to experience a security breach, especially when these security holes become public knowledge, and become easy to exploit. Furthermore, ensure you update your operating system to offset security risks, such as Windows, Mac OS, iOS and Android.

Speed, compatibility and more features

Newer web browser versions are constantly improving, which means your online experience will be faster, smooth due to increased compatibility with new technologies, and better, with new features and options. 

How can I update my web browser?

Most web browsers have forms of automatic updates, either directly in the web browser, or through system updates such as Windows Updates, the Apple App Store, or your smartphone/tablet's equivalent.

Updating your web browser

• Update Google Chrome (external website)
• Get the latest version of Safari (external website)
• Update Firefox to the latest version (external website)
• How to Update Internet Explorer (external website)

Updating your operating system

• Windows Update: FAQ (external website)
• Update the software on your Mac (external website)
• Update the iOS software on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch (external website)
• Check and update your Android version (external website)

What web browsers do the council support?

The council only support the latest version of the main and popular web browsers, due to security and compatibility reasons. Therefore, to ensure you can access all of the council's online services, please update your web browser to the latest version.