Cookies let websites remember your logins and preferences, so if Safari is set to block them, some sites will not work properly. Turning cookies back on is a quick settings change on both Mac and iPhone.
What you'll need
- A Mac or iPhone with Safari
Step by step
- On a Mac, open Safari settingsWith Safari open, click Safari in the menu bar and choose Settings (or Preferences on older versions).
- Check the Privacy tabClick the Privacy tab and make sure 'Block all cookies' is unchecked. Unchecking it allows sites to store cookies.
- On an iPhone, open SettingsGo to the Settings app, scroll down and tap Apps then Safari, or on older iOS tap Safari directly.
- Turn off Block All CookiesUnder the Privacy and Security section, toggle 'Block All Cookies' off. With it off, cookies are allowed.
- Reload the websiteReturn to the site that was not working and refresh the page so it can now store and read its cookies.
Handy tips
- You can leave 'Prevent Cross-Site Tracking' turned on to still block many trackers while allowing normal cookies.
- If a single site still misbehaves, clearing that site's old cookies and reloading can help.
FAQ
Is it safe to enable cookies?
Yes. Cookies from sites you use are generally safe and necessary for logins. You can keep cross-site tracking protection on to limit advertisers.
Why do some sites not work with cookies blocked?
Many sites rely on cookies to keep you signed in and remember settings. Blocking them can break logins and shopping carts.
What is the difference between blocking cookies and cross-site tracking?
Blocking all cookies stops nearly all site storage. Preventing cross-site tracking only limits cookies that follow you between different sites.