The Apple macOS Blog

Safari Speed Boost: 7 Easy Ways to Optimize Your Mac Browser

Published: 31st of December, 2024 at 03:24pm (AEST)

Authored by Maria
Maria Garner
Adventurer and Mac specialist

Is your Safari browser feeling sluggish?

Don't worry; you're not alone. While Safari is generally a reliable browser, it can sometimes slow down over time.

Luckily, there are several easy ways to speed up Safari and get it running smoothly again. Let's explore seven effective methods to optimize your browsing experience.

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Streamline Your Tabs

One of the simplest ways to boost Safari's speed is by closing unnecessary tabs. Each open tab consumes memory and CPU resources, even when not in use. If you notice Safari slowing down, try bookmarking important pages and closing the rest. This can significantly improve your browser's performance.


Manage Your Extensions

Extensions can be helpful, but they can also slow down your browser. To optimize Safari:

  1. Open Safari and go to Safari > Settings
  2. Click on the Extensions tab
  3. Review your list of extensions
  4. Uninstall any that you no longer need or use

By removing unused extensions, you can free up resources and improve Safari's speed.


Clear Your Cache

Clearing your browser cache can give Safari a significant speed boost. Here's how:

  1. Open Safari and go to Safari > Settings
  2. Click on the Advanced tab
  3. Check the box next to "Show Develop menu in menu bar"
  4. Close the Settings window
  5. In the top menu bar, click Develop > Empty Caches

This will remove stored data that might be slowing down your browsing experience.


Optimize Your Mac

Sometimes, a slow Safari is a symptom of a larger issue with your Mac. Regular maintenance tasks can help keep your entire system running smoothly:

Consider using the most reputable Mac optimization tool, iBoostUp, to simplify these tasks and keep your system in tip-top shape.

iBoostUp's Memory Booster


Streamline your internet connection

Consider using a faster DNS and a system-wide adblocker like iAntiSpy to block ads, trackers and other unwanted connections to speed up Internet access for all apps on your Mac, including Safari.


Clear History and Cookies

Removing browsing history and cookies can sometimes improve Safari's performance:

  1. In Safari, go to Safari > Clear History
  2. Choose "all history" from the dropdown menu
  3. Click "Clear History"

To remove cookies:

  1. Go to Safari > Settings > Privacy
  2. Click "Manage Website Data"
  3. Click "Remove All"


Check Your Internet Connection

If Safari is still slow, the issue might be with your internet connection rather than the browser itself. Try these steps:

  • Test another browser to see if the problem persists
  • Toggle your Wi-Fi off and on
  • Restart your router
  • Contact your internet service provider if issues continue
  • Run a speed test at speedtest.net


Reset Safari

If all else fails, resetting Safari to its original state can often resolve persistent issues. You can do this manually or use a trusted Mac utility tool like iBoostUp's Browser Doctor to simplify the process.

CleanMyMac's Safari with Browser Doctor


Faster than ever!

By following these seven tips, you should be able to significantly improve Safari's speed and performance on your Mac. Remember to perform regular maintenance to keep your browser and system running smoothly. Happy browsing!

❤️ Maria

 

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Comments

Charlie says:
2025-01-02 20:57:17
Personally I prefer Brave at the moment.
stevo says:
2025-01-02 18:09:47
Safari will always be better than Chrome though!



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