A web browser is a software application designed to access, retrieve, and display content from the World Wide Web. It acts as an interface between the user and the underlying network protocols, translating complex data streams, such as HTML and CSS, into a readable and navigable visual format. Functionally, the browser interprets the address provided by the user, sends requests over the network, and then renders the received data into structured pages, supporting interactive elements like images, videos, and executable scripts. Modern browsers incorporate sophisticated rendering engines and robust security mechanisms to isolate web content and manage user sessions, making them foundational tools for global digital communication and information exchange.