Why cookies matter
Cookies are small text files that a website stores on your device to remember who you are and what you prefer. They help you stay logged in, keep items in your shopping cart, remember language preferences, and tailor content to your interests. When cookies are disabled, many sites behave as if you are visiting for the first time, requiring repeated logins and settings re-entry.
Common questions about cookies
There are two main types: first-party cookies set by the site you visit and third-party cookies set by other services used by the site, such as analytics or advertising. You can usually permit all cookies, limit third-party cookies, or block them entirely. Modern browsers offer granular controls to balance convenience with privacy.
Enable cookies in Chrome
Desktop
Open Chrome, click the three vertical dots in the top-right corner, and go to Settings. Navigate to Privacy and security, then Cookies and other site data. Choose “Allow all cookies” or “Block third-party cookies in incognito” if you prefer some restrictions. If you want to keep sites functional, select “Sites can use cookies.”
Mobile
In the Chrome app, tap the three-dot menu, select Settings, then Site settings, and finally Cookies. Set it to “Allow all cookies” for the broadest compatibility or customize per-site preferences.
Enable cookies in Firefox
Desktop
Open the menu, select Settings, go to Privacy & Security, and locate Cookies and Site Data. Ensure “Accept cookies from sites” and “Accept third-party cookies” are enabled. You can choose how long keep cookies and set exceptions for specific sites.
Mobile
In the Firefox app, access Menu > Settings > Privacy and Security, and adjust the same cookie preferences to ensure a smoother browsing experience.
Enable cookies in Microsoft Edge
Desktop
Edge keeps cookies under Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Cookies. Turn on “Allow sites to save and read cookie data” and set your preferred controls for first- and third-party cookies. This helps log you in automatically and remember site preferences.
Enable cookies in Safari
macOS
Safari > Preferences > Privacy. Choose your preferred setting for cookies and website data. For most users, allowing cookies from websites you visit provides a good balance of convenience and privacy.
iOS
On iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Safari > Privacy & Security and adjust “Block All Cookies” and “Prevent Cross-Site Tracking” as desired. If you mostly browse on iOS, enabling cookies improves login persistence and site personalization.
Special note: Facebook in-app browser
Some readers have reported that the Facebook in-app browser sends requests without cookies. The Cairns Post suggests using external browsers for a more reliable experience. On Android or iOS, open the app’s settings and enable “Links Open Externally” so links open in your device’s default browser where cookies are properly stored.
Tips for safer browsing with cookies
- Keep cookies enabled if you trust the sites you visit; they improve login persistence and preferences.
- Regularly review cookie permissions to limit unnecessary data collection.
- Clear cookies for privacy or troubleshooting, but expect to re-enter credentials on sites you use often.
- Consider private browsing if you want to minimize long-term data storage; cookies won’t persist after you close the window.
Conclusion
Enabling cookies in your browser is a quick, practical step to improve how you browse online—more seamless logins, personalized content, and smoother shopping experiences across Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
