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First of all, I realize that Firefox and IE aren't the only choices out there, but just like Google isn't the only search engine, it is the 800 lb. gorilla among search engines. So, I'm limiting this article to just these two browsers, Mozilla's Firefox, and Microsoft's Internet Explorer, because they comprise the majority of all browser users.
I should tell you that Firebox is a free and open source web browser, managed by Mozilla Corporation. Firefox, as of June, 2010, (according to one poll) has almost 25% of the worldwide browser market, second only to Microsoft's Internet Explorer (IE). Some estimates put its percentage of market share a little lower.
Just a couple years ago, I had never heard of Mozilla and Firefox. I only knew about IE or Netscape. But, the press had always been so negative concerning Netscape that I never even considered using it. So, that meant I was only using Internet Explorer as a browser. Then, I began to hear more about Firefox, and I also started to notice that many of my business friends (some of whom are very savvy) were using Firefox, almost predominantly. So, I jumped on board, too...just to see what all the fuss was about.
I find that I now favor Firefox, although I do keep IE installed for certain situations.
For instance, I use a remote capture deposit machine to scan my checks and make deposits right here in my office, without going to the bank. The bank's software program will only work with IE. Maybe they'll catch on one day.
So, what are the two reasons I think Firefox is superior? It boils down to two issues:
- Security
- Ease of use by the average user (including some fantastic extensions and some robust Add-Ons)
That's it - just two small reasons that happen to be huge in the long run.
I plan to write in more detail about the two items listed above...security and Add-Ons, but for now, I will mention a few of the top reasons I like Firefox more than IE.
- Parental Controls - help offered to enforce the parental control settings you put in place with Windows 7.
- Flexible pop-up blocker - you can choose to totally block pop-ups, or you can quickly choose to allow pop-ups, or even create an list of sites where you will always "allow." Great flexibility, for sure!
- Outdated plug-in detection - Believe it or not, outdated plug-ins (written by other companies) are a security risk. Firefox will notify you when you have a plug-in that needs updating and then direct you straight to the right site to get your upgrade.
So, for me, Firefox is my definite browser of choice. I'll write more about some of the less well-known features in subsequent articles.
I highly recommend the tech blog http://www.CPURepairDude.com to learn more about taking care of your computer.
About this Author
Jeanne Kolenda has lived in Myrtle Beach, SC, for 20 years and is a telecommunications consultant and a small business marketing coach. Logon to http://www.businesstrainingteam.com and download a free eBook entitled Local Business Marketing On the Internet. Click on the starburst in the lower left corner of the home page. To contact Jeanne, email Jeanne@businesstrainingteam.com.
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