A browser allows users to view and interact with resources on the World Wide Web. It displays HTML pages and other web content by making HTTP requests and rendering the responses. Key components of a browser include a user interface, layout engine, rendering engine, JavaScript interpreter, and networking components. When a user enters a URL, the browser looks up the IP address and sends HTTP requests to retrieve and display the requested content, including linked resources. Common browser features include back/forward buttons, an address bar, and the ability to view page source. Browsers support privacy/security functions and web standards.