commentary With so many browsers on offer we are spoilt for choice. But what should you look for, and what are the security misconceptions?
Last month I spoke about moving to Thunderbird, and while it won our Editor's Choice award I still haven't been able to bring myself to switch from Outlook. However, along with plenty of other people, I have switched from Internet Explorer (IE) to Firefox.
| With more than 10 million downloads of Firefox, I think it is a safe bet that it will soon be targetted by virus writers. |
But it was time for a change. I switched to Firefox mainly because I wanted to find out what people have been raving about. Some commentators have suggested people should discontinue use of IE because of the higher risk of virus attacks, but I think those who moved to Firefox for that reason could soon find themselves disappointed.
Microsoft claims IE is targeted for more virus attacks because it is used by the most people (rather than any faults with the browser itself). Now with more than 10 million downloads of Firefox, if what Microsoft says it true then I think it is a safe bet that Firefox will soon be a common target for virus attacks as well. To prove the point, just last month a phishing flaw was found that would present a danger to every browser except IE.
However, in my opinion Firefox has enough good features to warrant switching anyway. My experience has been a good one -- the toolbars are all very familiar, it imported my favourites from IE, and I love the option of opening up new tabs, rather than new windows. The only downside is that I haven't been able to discontinue use of IE completely because there are still Web sites that haven't been developed with Firefox in mind.
Of course, continuing with my previous point, with the large takeup it won't take long for developers to start including it in their designs.
After reading Michael Palamountain's review I know I won't be waiting another six years before I try a different browser. With 11 browsers reviewed, there is so much choice! In fact, once I finish writing this editorial I will be downloading Opera -- this month's winner.
If you are looking for a change from your browser, following are some tips on what to look out for. Michael wrote these but unfortunately we ran out of space to include them in the review.
- Compatibility: Since there is the possibility that some Web sites will not be compatible with your browser, check your essential sites against browsers before you buy and install throughout your workplace. Ensure there are plug-ins available for important file reading, such as PDF, and content support for Flash and media players.
- Security: Ensure adequate controls exist for scripts, and cookies, and that compatible software exists for protection from malicious downloads.
- Ease of use: A tabbed browser is a definite advantage. Ensure there is a well laid out and accessible history list. Some functions can be very hard to find in menus or may not be clearly documented in help files.
- Support: Is there a phone or even e-mail help service available? Those without will normally at least have an online forum available, which will give limited assistance. Even free software packages may have paid support services available.
Natalie Hambly is editor of Technology & Business magazine. Have you made any product switches lately? E-mail: edit@zdnet.com.au.
This article was first published in Technology & Business magazine.
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FireFox is excellent but ThunderBird is a wanna be. It can not replace Outlook.