Module 2 – Online Essentials
Lesson 1 – Web Browsing Basics
The internet is a global network that connects millions of devices. A web browser allows you to
access information, communicate, search, shop, study and work online. This lesson introduces
the core concepts of web browsing and how to use a browser safely and effectively.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
- Explain what the internet is and what it is used for.
- Identify common web browsers and key parts of the browser window.
- Use tabs, the address bar and navigation buttons correctly.
- Use a search engine to find information online.
- Download files safely and recognise basic web security features (HTTPS, padlock).
- Manage history, cookies and private browsing at a basic level.
1. What is the internet?
The internet is a worldwide network of connected computers. It allows you to:
- View websites and online services
- Stream videos and music
- Use email and messaging
- Search for information
- Download files and software
- Shop, bank and work online
Try it now
Think of three different things you did online in the last week. Which category do they fit into?
- Communication
- Entertainment
- Work / Study
- Shopping / Banking
2. What is a web browser?
A browser is a program used to access the internet. Popular browsers include:
- Google Chrome
- Microsoft Edge
- Mozilla Firefox
- Safari (Apple devices)
A modern browser lets you:
- Open multiple tabs
- Bookmark websites
- View downloads
- Use private browsing (Incognito)
- Manage history, cookies and extensions
- Use built-in tools such as pop-up blockers and password managers
Quick check: Browser or not?
Which of these are web browsers?
- Google Chrome
- Microsoft Word
- Mozilla Firefox
- Spotify
Answer: Chrome and Firefox are browsers. Word and Spotify are applications, not browsers.
3. Website addresses (URLs)
A web address (URL) tells the browser where to go.
Example: https://www.example.com/page
Breakdown of parts:
- https:// – secure connection
- www.example.com – domain name
- /page – specific webpage
Mini activity
Look at a website you use often (for example your email or an online shop).
Write down its URL and identify:
- The protocol (http or https)
- The domain name
- Any extra path at the end (for example
/loginor/products)
4. Basic browser navigation
Understanding browser icons is essential:
- Back – return to the previous page
- Forward – go forward again after going back
- Refresh – reload a page
- Home – return to your homepage
- Address bar – type website addresses or search terms
- Tabs – open multiple pages at once
Insert Image: Diagram of browser navigation buttons
Self-check: Which button?
Which control would you use to do each of these?
- Reload a page that didn’t load properly.
- Go back to the last page you visited.
- Open a new website without closing the current one.
Answers:
- Reload: Refresh button.
- Last page: Back button.
- New website: open a new tab, then use the address bar.
5. Tabs and windows
Tabs let you open several webpages at the same time.
- New Tab – opens a new page
- Close Tab – closes the current page
- New Window – opens a separate browser window
- Incognito/Private Window – prevents saving of history and cookies on that device
Try it now
- Open your browser.
- Create two new tabs.
- Open a different website in each tab.
- Switch between tabs and then close just one tab.
6. Using search engines (ICDL requirement)
Search engines help you find information online.
- Examples: Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo
- Use keywords rather than full sentences
- Use quotation marks for exact phrases (“climate change report”)
- Use filters to refine results (Images, Videos, News, Dates)
Quick search challenge
Rewrite this as good search terms:
“How do I find bus times from London to Oxford tomorrow?”
Example keywords: London Oxford bus times or London to Oxford bus timetable
7. Downloading files
Examples of downloadable files:
- PDF documents
- Images
- Software installers
- Spreadsheets
Safe downloading practices:
- Only download from trusted websites
- Check the file type before downloading
- Avoid pirated content
- Scan downloaded files using antivirus
Scenario
You search for “free video editor” and see many download links on unfamiliar websites.
What should you do?
- Look for well-known, trusted sites or official developer pages.
- Avoid sites filled with pop-ups or “Download Now!” adverts.
- Scan the downloaded file with antivirus before opening.
8. Browser history and privacy
Browser history stores a record of the websites you have visited.
- History – view previously visited pages
- Clear browsing data – removes history, cookies and cache
- Private browsing – does not store history or cookies on that device
Clearing history:
- Improves privacy
- Can fix loading or display issues
- May remove stored passwords if chosen
9. Cookies
Cookies store small pieces of information about your visit.
- Essential cookies – required for the site to work
- Functional cookies – remember preferences
- Tracking cookies – used for advertising and analytics
Users can:
- Accept or reject cookie categories
- Clear cookies in browser settings
- Use private browsing to reduce tracking
Check your understanding: Cookies
True or false?
- Cookies are always dangerous and should never be accepted.
- You can delete cookies from your browser settings.
- Some websites will not work properly if you block all cookies.
Answers:
- False – many cookies are essential; tracking cookies are the main concern.
- True.
- True.
10. Web safety basics
- Look for HTTPS and the padlock symbol
- Avoid clicking unknown or suspicious links
- Do not enter personal details on unsafe websites
- Avoid unusual pop-ups asking for information
- Keep your browser updated for maximum security
Scenario: Is this website safe?
You receive an email saying your bank account will be closed unless you click a link and
log in immediately. The link opens a site without https and the design looks slightly different.
What should you do?
- Do not enter any details.
- Close the page.
- Access your bank by typing the address manually or using your saved bookmark.
- Contact the bank using an official phone number or app if you are unsure.
11. Practical Activity
- Open a browser and navigate to three different websites.
- Open and close multiple tabs.
- Add two bookmarks to your favourites bar.
- Clear your browser’s history and cookies.
- Find the HTTPS padlock and view the certificate on a secure site.
- Use a search engine to find a specific document or image.