Which web browser is the best? The differences in the top 5 web browsers

The five most popular Internet browsers have many things in common. All five offer: free, less than five second startup time, tabbed browsing, integrated search engine, smart toolbar, frequently visited web page list, RSS feeds, automatic updates, password manager, web search, page, popup blocker, antispyware, antivirus, antiphishing, clear history, online help, tutorials, user manuals, frequently asked questions, user forum and is compatible with Windows XP and Vista.

The differences between the browsers are very few, but considering your needs should help you decide which one to use.

EXPLORE THE INTERNET

Internet Explorer offers a thumbnail preview where you can see a closed tab without opening it. Allows users to save a set of tabs that will open when browsing is resumed. You can also customize your browser. IE offers the ability to sync information from the web between browsers, mobile devices, or documents. Parental controls allow parents to control the Internet activities of their children. IE also offers phone and email support.

MOZILLA FIREFOX

Firefox offers saved tabs, personalization, parental controls, and spell check. Firefox is different from the others in that it offers open source development, which means that it was created and maintained by a network of users. Volunteers are encouraged to improve the software. This browser offers a seamless download manager, which means there are no pop-ups while downloading. Firefox offers email support and is compatible with MAC, Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows Vista.

GOOGLE CHROME

Google Chrome was introduced in the fall of 2009. It offers thumbnail preview, synchronization, open source development and seamless download manager. It is only compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista. This browser does not offer parental controls.

OPERA

Opera offers thumbnail preview, saved tabs, customization, synchronization, and spell check. Of the five browsers, Opera offers extras that the other doesn’t. First, they offer Mouse Gestures, which is where mouse movements represent commands. This is very similar to shortcut keys. Second, they offer voice interaction where a user can use a microphone and headset and speak to the browser or the browser will read the user. Opera also offers Seamless Download Manager. Opera has email support and is compatible with MAC, Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows Vista. This browser does not offer parental controls.

APPLE SAFARI

Safari offers save tabs, customization, and spell checking, and is compatible with MAC, Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Vista. This browser does not offer parental controls.

CONCLUSION

Internet browsers are your gateway to the Internet. When looking for a browser, be sure to look for good security. You want a browser that protects you from pop-ups, viruses, and phishing scams. Most browsers offer the same features, but it’s the small differences that will help you decide.