What Exactly is a Browser?
If you're running Windows 95 or Windows 98, a browser was
included in that Windows package -- Microsoft's Internet Explorer.
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IE is easily recognized by its "e" icon.
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Because Internet Explorer is often included as part of the
package of a new computer purchase, many people forget that browsers
are actually software programs. But that's precisely what a browser
is -- a software program designed to locate and display
Web pages. Browsers are designed to read Hyper Text Markup
Language (HTML), which is simply the authoring language that is used
to write Web pages. Have you ever wondered what in the world that
http:// at the beginning of Web site addresses stands for? It stands
for Hyper Text Transfer Protocol, or in English, the standard for
how messages are transmitted and formatted on the Web.
Perhaps you have downloaded the other most popular browser,
Netscape Navigator, from the Internet or have received Netscape as
part of your Internet connection package.
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Netscape is
represented by
this lighthouse
icon.
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If both programs are browsers, do they work the exact same way
and produce identical results? Good question.
Some History
Back before Netscape was acquired by American Online (AOL), the
differences between the two major players were significant, often
sparking heated debate by users who had become devoted to one camp
or the other. As mentioned above, Windows came loaded with Internet
Explorer, so Netscape was considered the underdog, bravely fighting
for market share in a market dominated by its competitor.
Surprisingly, Netscape held its own and now the two are equals in
the market place.
Choosing Your Browser
So how do you choose which browser to use? Probably, the one that
you have used in the past. I used to use Netscape because that is what I
"learned" on. However, I recently switched to Internet
Explorer in order to use Outlook Express with my PDA. Remember, some interactive applications on a web page may not
work well in Netscape (and vice versa for that matter.)
If you have never really used the Internet, try giving each
browser a whirl. Since the programs are available for free, there's
no reason not to explore the interface of each browser. And there
are still some differences. For example, some people find Netscape’s
"Bookmarks" as easier feature than Internet Explorer ‘s
counterpart, "Favorites." However, Internet Explorer has a
great feature that will save passwords for future use, whereas the
latest version of Netscape does not. It all comes down to personal
preference. Or in some cases who you know who can help you out when
you have a problem!
Once you have downloaded the browser initially, it is a simple
and quick task to periodically download the free upgrades. Make sure
you do so to guarantee the optimal browsing experience! Usually,
both will notify you of changes when you "sign up" to do
so.
