Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Pop quiz: What browser are you using right now? If you're using the default browser installed on your computer - Internet Explorer for Windows and Safari for Macs - you might want to expand your horizons.Other browsers have features that you might like better, like a more user-friendly interface, better privacy or security, better developed add-on browser programs, or a slicker look. There's no rule that says you can only use one Web browser, either. Why not try several? They're free and they work well on both Windows and Mac.
It's hard to decide on a new browser or update the one you have if you don't know what browser you're using. This website, appropriately named What Browser Am I Using?, will tell you in seconds.
As soon as you open the site, it will identify your browser and tell you if there's a newer version available. It's that simple. If there is a newer version, by the way, you should update so you have the latest security features.
Google Chrome
Google Chrome consistently ranks as one of the fastest browsers around. It also has a clean, minimal interface that shows you more of the sites you visit. In fact, the look is so popular every other browser has adopted some version of it.One thing you'll notice when you first start using Chrome is that there's no search bar. In Chrome, the address bar is the search bar. Just type what you want to see. Chrome also lets you use extensions, which are programs that modify and improve your browser.
You can even sync your desktop bookmarks to your smartphone if you use the Google Chrome mobile browser.
Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is another Web browser that's fast and secure and is known for being highly customizable. There are more than 100,000 add-ons to tailor the program to fit your needs.Firefox was one of the first browsers to incorporate tabbed browsing. Because it's open-source, it's constantly being updated and improved by both developers and users alike.
Firefox also has a mobile version. You can sync bookmarks and open tabs from the desktop version.
Firefox is always being updated, so you don't have to worry about it lagging behind. That means the security is also being upgraded, so your browsing will stay protected.
Opera
Opera has been around for a very long time, but it's flown under the radar for the most part. That's a shame, really. Opera has a very good track record for security against malicious software. It also has excellent speed.You'll find plenty of great features like tab-stacking, mouse gestures and built-in ad blocking. It might be a bit different than what you're used to, but longtime Opera users swear by it.
Tor
Tor, also known as The Onion Router, is a secure and private browser that works best for advanced computer users. It looks and acts like a familiar Web browser, but it's what it does behind the scenes that is so remarkable. Just be warned: Tor will change your Web browser's settings.You may notice some loss of speed when you use it. That's because your Web traffic is traveling through several relays before it finally gets to you. On top of that, Tor can bounce your connection around the world. If the NSA does snoop on your activity, you'll be treated as a foreign national until you can be identified as an American citizen.