Internet Explorer
If you buy a computer with a Microsoft Windows operating system, Internet Explorer was pre-loaded. While Internet Explorer has improved greatly in recent years, Firefox (below) still passes IE in some speed and performance tests and Safari wins speed tests in initial browser start-up time. In the end, it comes down to personal preference.
If you prefer Internet Explorer, make sure you have the most up-to-date version of the browser. Too many users are still on Internet Explorer 6. Using an outdated web browser leaves your browser wide open for malicious attacks.
Firefox
Mozilla Firefox began as an alternative to Internet Explorer, but it is quickly gaining popularity. About 26.8% of users choose Firefox as a web browser. Firefox always surpassed IE in speed tests and had a more convenient interface. Features such as Download Manager, now available in IE 9, and tabs, which only became available with IE 7, were available on Firefox long before IE incorporated them.
IE 9 looks to possibly convert a few Firefox die-hards back to Microsoft’s way of doing things. But those still using Windows XP may need to stick with Firefox, since IE 9 is not supported on XP.
Google Chrome
Google seems to be everywhere these days, but don’t mistake Google’s diversification for simplification. Google’s three-year-old web browser, Chrome, is a strong contender in the search engine wars, winning speed tests and usability compliments alongside Firefox and Safari. Chrome is also gaining on Firefox in popularity, with 22.14% usage worldwide in 2011.
Safari
Apple’s web browser has gained in popularity thanks to the advent of iPads, along with the popularity of iPhones. Safari is pre-installed with all Mac computers, as well as Apple’s other devices, but it is also available for Windows XP and later versions. Some have reported issues with operating it on the Windows platform, however, so have another browser as a back-up, just in case.
Opera
Opera was the original browser of choice for cell phones and still is the only browser available for the Wii and Nintendo gaming consoles. Even though it is the least popular of the five biggest browsers in the States, Opera is the most popular in some smaller countries throughout the world. For portable devices, Opera is the best, but as a desktop browser, most people will likely continue to stick with the tried and true.
You may read all of these descriptions and still decide to stay with the same browser, but at least you will be making an informed decision, in the best interests of your small business.