The Browser Wars – Which Is the Best Web Browser?

Once, consumers had little choice in the means by which they navigated the Internet. Most people used Internet Explorer (IE), since it came with Windows and other options were only available at a premium. The landscape has changed today. Quite a few browsers are available, all of which claim to be “the best.” Of course, claiming that particular title doesn’t actually make it so. Quite a bit of work goes into creating the best possible surfing experience, and not all browsers are capable of delivering where it really counts. What’s the best Internet browser? Let’s take a look at the offerings available today.

Microsoft Internet Explorer

The most used web browser in the world, IE 8 is Microsoft’s main offering, though the 9th generation recently debuted. IE 8 offers several upgrades on previous generations of the browser, bolstering its claim to being the best web browser on offer.

One area where IE scores high points is in its parental controls. In fact, the level of parental customization, blocking and limiting makes this one of the best Internet browser choices for families with children where adult web content is a real concern. This version also brings users a tabbed browsing experience and it also features upgraded security as well.

In terms of help and support, IE leads the pack. They provide a detailed FAQ section, as well as an in-depth knowledge base, but you can also email or call for personal help if you need it.
One area where IE lags behind other browsers is in terms of speed. It’s quick, but it does not have the blazing fast speed found with Chrome, or even with the later releases of Mozilla Firefox. It has fewer compatibility issues than previous versions did, though.
In the end, IE is a solid offering in terms of the best web browser available.

Google Chrome

Google Chrome is a relative newcomer to the browser scene, but it is growing quite rapidly in terms of popularity and market share. It comes in a solid third place in terms of global market share, which is no mean feat considering the short amount of time the browser has been on the market when compared to IE and Firefox.

Chrome leads the pack in the realm of pure speed – even the latest Firefox release is not quite on par. However, the increase in speed comes at the cost of gutting the browser – minimal is putting it mildly. This quality makes it appealing for some users, but others will find it a little too bland for their tastes. The browser really puts the focus on the web content, rather than on built-in tools or browser features, though there is a growing list of add-ons that can be installed through the Chrome Web Store.
In terms of security, Chrome ranks very high, and provides immense protection against things like pop-ups, phishing and even malware. However, it does not stack up so well in the support and help provided. There is an online help center, as well as an online help group/forum. However, there is no personal phone or email support offered.

Chrome is a great browser, and if you want fast browsing, you can’t do better. Chrome is probably the best browser in terms of browsing speed. However, it is not quite as robust as many users desire.

Mozilla Firefox

Firefox is the second most used Internet browser in the world, and commands almost 30% market share (as opposed to just over 43% for IE). Firefox is an open source platform. This offers quite a few advantages.
One of the single largest advantages here is the ability to utilize the 6,000 or so add-ons from third-party developers. These integrate seamlessly with Firefox and offer the ability to do almost anything more easily, from tracking stock performance to keyword research and everything in between. This certainly makes this a top contender for the title of best web browser.

When it comes to security, you really cannot do much better than Firefox. For instance, the integrated site rating in the browser chrome offers immediate details about a particular site’s trustworthiness. Clearing your cookies and other private information is also far easier with this browser.
Firefox also makes private browsing easier than IE. It’s fully integrated within the browser (something that took IE a long time to do), and there is no change in the browser’s appearance or any new icons that set private browsing apart from standard surfing (as opposed to IE).

For help and support considerations, Firefox is a nice mix between IE and Chrome. You will find a full FAQ section, as well as tutorials on how to use the browser and solve common problems. If that doesn’t work, you also have the ability to chat live with those in the Firefox forums, but it’s likely that you won’t need this feature at all. Firefox is one of the least troublesome browsers available, and operates seamlessly.
While Firefox is not as quick as Chrome, it is faster than Internet Explorer and offers tools and features unavailable in Chrome (without sacrificing that vaunted speed).

Who Wins Best Internet Browser?
In the end, which browser wins the title of best Internet browser? Many think Firefox is the best browser thanks to its solid operation and innovative features. The immense number of add-ons is another benefit for user, and the fact that Firefox takes your privacy and security seriously helps you surf the Internet freely, without worries that your privacy could be compromised because of lackluster browser protection. Each browser has its pros and cons, so only time will tell who will be dubbed the “Best Web Browser”.