# Web Browsers

This guide covers the browsers available on FVSD computers and tips for troubleshooting common issues.

## Supported Browsers

- **Microsoft Edge (Recommended)** — the default browser on FVSD computers. Edge uses Single Sign-On (SSO) with your FVSD account, so you'll be **automatically signed in** to Microsoft 365 services (Outlook, SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive) without needing to enter your password each time.
- **Google Chrome** — also available if you prefer it. Best for Google Workspace tools (Classroom, Drive, Docs).

We recommend Edge for the seamless sign-in experience, but you're welcome to use Chrome if you prefer.

## Clearing Your Browser Cache

If a website isn't loading correctly, is showing outdated content, or is running slowly, clearing the cache often fixes it.

### Chrome

1. Press **Ctrl + Shift + Delete**
2. Set the time range to **All time**
3. Check **Cached images and files** (and **Cookies** if needed — note this will sign you out of websites)
4. Click **Clear data**

### Edge

1. Press **Ctrl + Shift + Delete**
2. Set the time range to **All time**
3. Check **Cached images and files**
4. Click **Clear now**

## Managing Bookmarks

### Adding a Bookmark

- Press **Ctrl + D** on any page to bookmark it
- Choose a folder to save it in and click **Done**

### Accessing Bookmarks

- Click the **star icon** or **bookmarks bar** at the top of the browser
- Press **Ctrl + Shift + O** to open the bookmark manager

## Browser Extensions

- **Do not install browser extensions yourself** — some extensions pose security or privacy risks
- If you need a specific extension for your work, submit a request to IT
- IT-approved extensions are deployed automatically to managed browsers

## Common Questions

**Q: A website isn't loading or shows an error.**

A: Try these steps in order:

1. Refresh the page (**Ctrl + R** or **F5**)
2. Clear your browser cache (see above)
3. Try the site in a different browser
4. If it still doesn't work, it may be a site-level issue or blocked by the network filter — contact IT

**Q: I keep getting pop-ups or redirects.**

A: Do not click on any pop-ups. Close the browser and reopen it. If the issue continues, contact IT — your browser may need to be reset.

**Q: A site I need for work is blocked.**

A: Some sites are blocked by the FVSD network filter. If you need a site unblocked for work or educational purposes, submit a ticket to IT with the URL and the reason you need access.

**Q: Which browser should I use for \[specific tool\]?**

A: As a general rule — Edge for Microsoft tools, Chrome for Google tools. Most sites work fine in either.

## Contact IT

- **Submit a ticket** through the IT helpdesk
- **Email:** helpdesk@fvsd.ab.ca