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ARE YOU USING THE BROWSER THAT BEST MEETS YOUR NEEDS?
by K.E.Lubrecht
25 March 2003
Even if you have just bought a new computer, you may not have the latest version of your browser. The logistics of having the latest versions ready to load make it unlikely if you have made your purchase from one of the larger companies. If they provide you with a browser, you can go online and download the upgrade.
If you have had your machine and/or browser for a while, you may find upgrades available for free on the company's site. There are links on the right to facilitate finding them for a few of the common browsers. Before you replace your current version check the specifications to be sure that your system satisfies the requirements. Remember that specs are usually conservative in estimating the amount of memory required. If you run more than one window or program, you will probably want to be sure to have a bit more. Check the FAQs for compatibility issues. For example, at this writing some of McAfee's software can cause issues with Mozilla, but there is a solution to the bug.
Upgrading your browser to the newest one that your computer can support is important. Security problems may be identified and corrected in the latest versions more efficiently than by patching. The newer browsers allow web site developers to present their sites in a visually pleasing and efficient manner for your machine. There are several companies offering browsers so that you have a choice of graphic interface and test versions. Be careful of the newest versions available on the site. They may be betas, test versions. Occasionally check the site for patches or upgrades. Familiarize yourself with the features. Set the security features to meet your needs. You may want to change the page to which it opens and the size of the cache. Determine what features the browser will allow you to customize.
Just because a browser is installed on your machine does not mean it is, or will remain, the best browser for you.
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K.E. Lubrecht has been in website development since 1997. Prior to that, she worked as a teacher. She holds a bachelors degree in physics with a related field of mathematics, and graduate work in education. In addition, she holds webmaster certification. Her education has continued as technology has advanced, and needs and interests have warranted. |
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