Using the Cacheability Engine as a Browser Extension

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Internet Explorer 4 and above

The Cacheability Engine can also be used as an extension in the context-aware (right-click) menu for Internet Explorer 4 and above on Windows. This makes it easy to check cacheability as you surf. To use it, follow these instructions.

Step 1: Download

Download the extension from here. The browser will prompt you to save a file 'cache.reg'; save it somewhere convenient (like your desktop).

Step 2: Merge

Now, right-click on the 'cache.reg' file. If there's a menu item called 'merge', use it. If there isn't, you'll have to open a Windows Explorer and do it from there.

Step 3: restart IE

Finally, quit IE and restart it. When you find a page where you'd like to check the cacheability, right-click anywhere and select 'Cacheability'.

How does it work?

This extension works because IE allows extesions to be added simply. It knows what page you're currently looking at, and submits it to the Internet instance of the Cacheability Engine that you're using right now.

Netscape Navigator 4 and above

Netscape browsers can access the Engine by using a JavaScript bookmark. When you wish to examine the cachability of a site, select the bookmark (from the bookmarks menu, or the Personal Toolbar), and they will appear in a new window.

To use it in this manner, follow these instructions.

Step 1: Decide how to Save

Add the link below to your bookmark folder by one of the following methods:

  • Right-click on it and select "Add Bookmark"
  • Drag-and-drop the link into your bookmark menu.
  • Drag-and-drop the link onto your Personal Toolbar.

Once the bookmark is there, you can use this Engine by clicking on the saved bookmark when you have the target page in your front browser window.

Save the Bookmark

Here it is: Cacheability

How does it work?

The bookmark has JavaScript embedded in it that will automatically figure out what page is in the current browser window, and access the Engine for that page.

You can find more useful tools like this at http://www.bookmarklets.com/.

Extension Problems? Try reinstalling as above - if the Engine has been upgraded, you may need to change your extension.


Need to know how to use this? Read about this service, and how to make your site work with Web caches.

version 1.22