According to Internet World Stats, 1,966,514,816 people around the world utilize the World Wide Web, that's nearly 29% of the globe. Every day these billions of people surf the web through an Internet browser, an online application that provides a window of opportunities for connecting its users to their specific needs, whether it's social connections, business transactions, shopping, entertainment and more.
Because Internet browsers are free and have become such a big part of our everyday online lives, we might take for granted their power, overlooking what is important when choosing one; or, we might be uninformed.
Think about all of your daily interaction and transactions performed on the Internet. While a browser should be easy-to-use and efficient, it should also be consistently updated for keeping in tune with the ever-changing nature of the web. Online security is also important and the browser you choose should enhance your Internet experience while keeping your data secure and risk for viruses and phishing scams at a low.
Another important factor in choosing a browser is its speed and compatibility. Over the years different browsers have come and gone while only the best survive. FireFox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer and Opera are among the top browsers based on their speed, compatibility, security, efficiency and support.
Information concerning usage of browsers yield that Internet Explorer has the highest usage (see chart above), but based on reviews concerning its functionality, most say that FireFox is the best.
So how do you know if you're using the most optimum browser for surfing the web?
Below I've listed ways to upgrade your browsers and tools to test your browser's compatibility. Don't let an old version or unsafe browser ruin your online experience, test and upgrade now to ensure you're browsing with the best!
Acid3 Test
The Acid3 Test checks the performance of your browser, following specific web standards such as: compatibility, accessibility, and usability. When opened on your browser of choice, the Acid3 test will run, performing a series of subtests which will determine your browser's score (a score of 90 and above is ideal).
Test your browser now.
Browser Shots
If you're in the web-design/development business, browser compatibility is always on your mind. Browser Shots is a free online application that generates screen shots of any URL, showing how the page will look in the different browsers and their various versions.
Time to Upgrade?
FireFox
FireFox is one of the top browsers and offers a minimalist browser experience. TopTenReviews.com highlights FF's "pin as app" feature as a helpful tool and points out its only downfall being its inability to produce thumbnail previews and native mouse gesture compatibility.
Latest Version: 4
Upgrade now.
Google Chrome
Google Chrome is one of the fastest Internet browsers, separating each tab into its own Internet process, which TopTenReviews.com explains, "this feature makes it one of the most secure browsers." It's only and minor pitfall: leave a tab open for too long and refreshing might take a while - big deal!
Still in Beta, download here.
Internet Explorer
Personally, I'm not a fan of Internet Explorer; although, it is among the top browsers and like I said, according to usage, it yields the highest percentage. So if you should choose to use good old IE, please do yourself a favor and upgrade. As the most common browser, IE makes up for its security flaws in offering great technical support. In my opinion, is that worth it?
Latest Version: 9
Download if your dare.
Opera
I've just started using Opera and noticed it has added social features to its newest version (similar to Rockmelt, for those of you who are familiar). TopTenReviews.com says its speed is "some of the best we've seen;" however, they also mention its frequent encounters with browser incompatibility.
Latest Version: 9.4
Upgrade now and see for yourself.
What browser are you currently using?