Internet Explorer is currently the most widely used browser by owners of Windows PCs. Why? Is it because it’s the absolute best browser in the world and you couldn’t possibly want to use anything else? Is it because it’s the most secure browser on the market? Is it because it’s free? No. It’s because Microsoft owns both Internet Explorer AND the Windows operating systems, including XP, Vista and Windows 7. Therefore, if you purchase a Windows PC, Internet Explorer is included automatically. For MAC users, Apple Safari is the default browser.
“But Digimonkey!” you cry, “If it’s the most popular browser than it must be the best, right?” Well…rather than giving a short answer, Digi’s going to give you more facts instead.
Two of the most important factors when choosing a browser are speed and security. You want webpages to load quickly, but you also want your information to be secure from prying eyes. So what are the options?
Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla is a global, non-profit organization. Firefox was first released in 2002 and is currently available in more than 75 languages. Firefox excels at security and customer support, and is slightly above average for speed.
http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/
Google Chrome
Chrome is Google’s browser, which is why it integrates so well with all Google services, such as Mail, Maps and Search. It’s a leader for speed and customer support, and one of the top two for security (with Firefox).
https://www.google.com/intl/en/chrome/browser/
Apple Safari
Originally available only for MAC computers, Safari can now be installed on Windows PCs as well. Safari rates well for ease of use, is slightly above average for speed, and about average for security.
Opera
Opera is based in Norway, and can be used on a huge range of devices, from computers to phones, and even some game consoles. Opera has excellent customer support, and is about average for speed and security.
IE
The most well known browser, Internet Explorer is a Microsoft product. It ranks well for customer support, is average for security, and on the low end for speed.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/internet-explorer/products/ie/home/
Is there one option that should always be selected over the others? Of course not. For one thing, the software developers are constantly revamping the browsers to adapt to the changing Web environment, so the strengths and weaknesses of a given browser can change when a new version is released. Also, the browser that works great on your computer might not be the best choice for your mobile device and vice versa. Digi recommends that you try the various options and find the one that works best for YOU! You may be surprised by the many options that are available.
Regardless of the browser you choose, it is important to keep your browser updated at all times. Hackers are continually trying to find ways around the security features of browsers so they can grab private information, and the updates that are sent for your browser are the equivalent of a shield to protect you. If that shield is not reinforced or replaced on a regular basis, over time it will weaken and leave you vulnerable to attack. So please take Digi’s advice and UPDATE YOUR BROWSER!
For those of you who are burning with curiosity after reading Digi’s post, you can learn more about how the various browsers have stacked up in comparison testing by following the links below:
http://internet-browser-review.toptenreviews.com/
http://sixrevisions.com/infographs/browser-performance/
Do you have a favorite browser? Share your stories with Digi!
Filed Under: DigiMonkey eBook Tips
Tagged: browser, digimonkey, eBook tips
