Updated March 2017:
A web browser is the program that you use to access internet web sites. For most of this decade the most popular browsers include Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari and the AOL browser. Some browsers are faster than others, while others have more security precautions built-in. Whichever one you use, it’s a good idea to install and become familiar with at least one alternative web browser now – in case your regular web browser doesn’t work or can’t access some or all web sites.
In 2015 Microsoft released a new browser called “Microsoft Edge” bundled with their Windows 10 operating system. Since the release of Edge, Microsoft has stopped updating features in the once-popular Internet Explorer. Internet Explorer has become less reliable and more prone to security issues in the past few years and we no longer recommend it using it as your primary browser. Currently the most popular and secure browser is Google’s Chrome browser.
In summary you need to have and be familiar with multiple browsers, so when one doesn’t work to access certain web sites, you’ve got a backup alternative browser.
Troubleshooting Tip: If accessing web sites with your regular browser does not work, but it does work with an alternative web browser, it can be assumed that it’s a problem with your browser or web site and not a problem with your internet connection. With an alternative browser you can continue to access web sites until Computer Techs can fix your regular browser.
Like backing up your computer before disaster strikes, we suggest installing an alternative web browser today so that you’ll have it available in case of an emergency.