OWLSnet Support Documents :: Browser Recommendations

Posted:2005

Browser Recommendations

One of the dilemmas we constantly face is the never-ending evolution of browsers (or any computer application, for that matter!). Well-known ones, like Netscape or Internet Explorer, are constantly being developed or changed, requiring upgrades and downloads. And then there are new browsers that appear now and then that people get excited about. How do you keep up? How do you know which one you should be using? Good question.

Our motto at OWLS for browsers right now is "if it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Our last browser recommendation was to switch from Netscape to Internet Explorer (at least version 6) for Internet browsing. Internet Explorer has proven to be more reliable and compatible with most web pages than Netscape. Do we still recommend it?

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

For public Internet computers

If you're using Internet Explorer and it's working fine for you, then keep using it. It's a good idea to keep upgrading to the most current version to keep on top of security issues with this browser. We do NOT recommend using Netscape for Internet browsing on public Internet computers.

For staff computers

Again, if you're using Internet Explorer and it's working fine for you, then keep using it. If you want to try something new, take a look at Mozilla's Firefox. This browser is beginning to give IE a run for its money. It includes tabbed browsing and pop-up control. You can download a copy at http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/. We don't formally support Firefox yet, but it's so easy to use you won't need our help anyway. <wink>
We do NOT recommend using Netscape for Internet browsing on staff computers.

If you have questions about browser issues at your library, please contact Dave (OWLS members) or Terrie (NFLS members).

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