A browser is an integral part in the lives of all internet users. It is one of the software that we use most during internet surfing for visiting websites, or reaching out to any information available on the World Wide Web. Web browsers keep updating themselves in terms of features like - speed, security, user-friendliness and others. So far the most used web browsers are Internet Explorer (IE), Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Apple Safari etc.
What is a modern web browser?
The term modern web browser is often used these days to denote the latest web browsers. However, there isn’t any particular definition to explain and define modern web browsers. Most users would agree that a browser that gets a website by following the web standards without using malicious means like hacking or other illegal methods is a modern web browser. The gradual advancement of technology has undoubtedly created a virtual line of distinction between the old and modern browsers.
Today’s modern browsers provide users many benefits in form of security, user friendliness, quick to connect etc. To name few of them are IE 8, 9, 10, Firefox, Chrome, Safari Opera etc. A contradictory view about IE 8 and IE 9 is put forward by a group of people who say that these are not the modern web browsers because they do not qualify the web standard tests and also not support the latest web technologies including CSS3 and HTML5.
Internet Explorer 10
IE 10 is the latest among all the modern browsers available today. According to Microsoft, the browser scores more point for its speed that can bring web before you in comparatively less time than the others. It can impress the users with its ability quick loading of websites, website sharing or switching from sites to apps. Moreover, this browser fulfills the requirement to be a modern browser because of the enhanced security and more privacy. It carries built-in features like SmartScreen and Tracking Protection to provide the user, command over their personal information.
The features of modern browsers roll out many benefits for the users. Some of them are listed below:
Speed
The first advantage of a modern browser is its speed. These browsers are made to work on modern PCs and laptops that are equipped with latest and powerful processors as well as graphic cards that leverage their speed to perform better. Based on advanced technology these browsers render quick loading of web pages and faster execution of Javascript. These web browsers are also known for their better memory and storage management capability.
Security
Internet security is the biggest hue and cry all around the web world. It has become our top priority to protect our information and data before anything else. Modern web browsers are playing its role in making this a reality. Today’s web browsers are equipped with security features that provide anti-phishing protection, improved parental controls and tools to prevent malware/privacy threats.
Compliance to Web Standards
Another benefit of modern browsers is their compliance to the latest web standards and technologies. Earlier, browsers were not supporting CSS3 properties that include rounded corners, drop shadows, text shadows, gradients, etc. Modern browser like IE9 has been improved to support these properties yet many properties are not supported by these browsers. Compliance to the latest web standard improves the browser’s performance as more CSS and less image files reduce the page load time for a website because in CSS, code are smaller in file size as compared to a jpg or png file.
Free availability
Most of the browsers discussed in this article are free to download and install. Downloading and installing of a particular browser takes just few minutes and that also comes without spending a single penny as these all are available on the web, free of cost.
As there are lot of options available today for the internet users, choosing the right kind of browser is not easy. You should beat all the confusions and choose a browser that fulfills your requirement precisely. Going by the popular trend, you will find that most Windows users use IE as the default browser whereas Mac users use the default Safari browser. Chrome could become the ideal choice if you often use the Google’s services. You can use a lot of add-ons or extensions with the Firefox that is an open source web browser. Thus the options are wide but the selection is yours.
Brooke M. Perry is an ardent technician associated with Qresolve online computer support, with wide experience of fixing issues with PCs, laptops, tablets and smartphones. With a strong track record of devising effective ways of remote Pc support and system security, she has so far helped thousands of users across the globe. Her writings on tech issues are the reflection of her in-depth interest and command she carries as a computer support technician. Her blogs and articles have been rated high for their lucid style and easy to understand language.