The Importance of an Alternative Web Browser

Written by kRemtronicz | 22 October 2008
Posted in Mundo Internet

We live in a time where the Internet has become so important to the majority around the world, that I wouldn't be surprise to see people watching shows online while they eat their dinner instead of using their new HD "tube" to accomplish the same task. In other words, instead of using a remote and a cable box, bachelors and others will now begin to use a computer and web browser. Crazy or not, being able to skip the repetitive, hypnotizing commercials is something stimulative enough for those addicted to the "teevee" to start practicing the new trend. But this is material for another post.

I say: A web browser should be treated like the most important software installed in your computer. In fact, have you realized that perhaps is the most used software in your system? From online gaming to cheerfully paying bills through the cable, the Internet along with a preferred web browser, help one to fill the daily computing quota. So here's where I ask, are you maximizing the usability of your browser? I respect everyone's desicion when it comes to their way to surf the net; but the fact that one might be still using an "olde mate" like Explorer 6, leaves me with a big interrogation sign hovering over my head. With so many options out there (and free of charge), and considering that IT IS the most used software for most people, why aren't some of us spending more time researching for what we really want our browser to be?

Browser Wars

Even though it's been around 20 years since the very first web browser, the "WorldWideWeb" released in 1991, we nowadays count with an endless list of web browsers of all colors and shapes. From the over used Internet Explorer to others not-so-known like K-Meleon and Konqueror; to all the newest ones like Google Chrome, the web browser market is growing in quality, but more importantly, in functionality.

In recent years, thousands of users have intelligently switched from IE to better, quicker, more reliable and secure browsers such as Firefox, Safari, and Opera, and also the social-web-enabled Flock. It isn't hate towards Explorer what drives me to transmit this knowledge about web browsers to you; it is just the fact that Microsoft's browser, despite of their "popularity,"doesn't deserve the place where it stands. Security concerns, and overall slower performance compared to other browsers, among other things, have encouraged users to seek for better alternatives. Check out these web browser usage statistics dating as far as 2002. Moreover, Alternative Browser Alliance is a concise, well-explained resource on information about alternatives to IE. Spread the word!

Choosing a Browser

This is perhaps the most difficult choice for everyone. Since all web browsers differ from one another in speed, content display, add-ons, design, etc., it isn't easy to simply recommend one. Nevertheless, their free-to-download nature allows one to install, test, and keep or dump them so painlessly, that withing an hour of research, you could have your brand new surfing tool ready to display those favorite pages smoothly.

Personally, I use Firefox (now on version 3.0.3) most of the time. Its countless, useful add-ons, sleek design, efficient tabs, and enhanced bookmarking system, are some of the features that have kept me in love with this baby for so long. Also, I use Opera 9 and Safari 3 to accomplish other tasks. Being two of the fastest browsers on the market, I just can't resist not to have them warmly housed in my computer. And at last, but not least, comes Flock which is excellent at keeping my social skills up to date.

Begin your New Journey

It might sound corny a bit, but switching a web browser is a changing experience for many. If you made it this far reading, then I assume you are ready to make your web-surfing life more secure, enjoyable, and the way you intend it to be. Many of these programs are created and maintained by users just like you all around the world, making the switching a consciously organic choice. Kick your "olde mate" and begin a new life. Help make a difference!