If you have been using a Macbook for a long time, you have probably been accustomed to the Safari browser. Safari is the default choice for the macOS, and users tend to stick with it despite there being other options, like Firefox or Chrome.
Nevertheless, even if Safari is the default macOS browser and is optimized for the system, there are still times when users encounter problems when they are surfing the internet.
That is not to say that safari not working properly is common, but rather that the browser experiences hiccups now and then. Though there are instances when it becomes almost impossible to use it.
If you are struggling with Safari, there is no need to look for an alternative browser unless you want to change your browsing experience. No, you can do a lot to improve the performance and get back to the time when you could surf the internet without any problems.
Way #1 – Clear Log and Cache Files
Cache files are stored so that you can access frequently visited pages faster. Whenever there is a new website that you visit, the browser downloads all of the necessary elements to load the site.
However, over time, the cache grows and reaches a point where it affects the speed of a browser. Therefore, it is necessary to clear cache files frequently. Some do it once every month, others – once every week. It depends on personal preference, but the bottom line is that you need to clear caches and logs that are influencing the browser and slowing it down.
Way #2 – Scan for Malware and Viruses
Even if you are actively avoiding shady-looking sites, it does not prevent potential cybersecurity threats for browsers.
Viruses or malware can make it impossible to use the internet. In some instances, it will also lead to bigger issues that will affect not just the browser, but your computer as well.
If you notice that the performance of Safari has dropped suddenly and you did not do anything, in particular, that might have slowed it down, scan for malware and viruses. And if any are detected, remove these threats.
Way #3 – Free up Disk Space
The overall performance of the Mac is directly related to the performance of Safari. If your computer is experiencing issues, do not be surprised to see that the browser is also malfunctioning.
Freeing up disk space is one of the first things you can do. There should be old applications, backup files, caches, language packs, and media files that can be removed or transferred to cloud or external storage devices. When you make more free space on the disk, it will give both the Mac and Safari a big boost.
Way #4 – Delete Browsing History
Spending a lot of time on the internet leads to constant growth of browsing history. Safari stores this information, and similarly to cache, browsing history brings the performance of the browser down. Clearing history regularly should also be a part of the browser maintenance routine.
Way #5 – Trim Extension and Add-on List
Extensions and add-ons are great when you want to upgrade the browser and add new features that will enrich your browsing experience. However, there should be a limit to how many extensions you install.
Some users do not consider the effects multiple extensions have on their browser and add anything they find interesting. This leads to a significant drop in the performance of Safari. Look at your list of add-ons and get rid of any that are not necessary. Relaunch the browser, and you should notice how much of an improvement it will be.
Way #6 – Check for Updates
By default, the browser should update automatically, but you should still make sure that you are using the most recent version. New updates will bring stability and security improvements to Safari browser. It is possible that the thing you were missing was a simple patch.
Way #7 – Restart the Computer
Regular restarts for the Mac will prevent memory leaks and will speed things up. Unless you are using the computer non-stop, you should be perfectly fine with just a few restarts throughout the day. After all, if you need more than that, it probably means that the bigger issue is with the Mac itself rather than the browser.
Way #8 – Minimize the Number of Open Tabs
Keep the number of open tabs to a minimum. Even if a browser tab is open, it still consumes resources and does not help with the overall performance. So unless you need to use multiple tabs at the same time, it would be better to stick to just one.
Also Read – 16 Useful MacOS Terminal Commands You Probably Do Not Know
Way #9 – Look at Your Network Connection
The final thing you should do is look at the network connection. The best way to determine which of the two between Safari and your internet is at fault would be by installing another browser and seeing how it performs compared to what you were using before.
My Safari browser is now faster. Thank you!