What Is the Difference Between Netscape Navigator & Microsoft Internet Explorer?
While Microsoft Internet Explorer comes preinstalled on all PCs running the Windows operating system, many consumers look to third-party browsers when the features better suit their needs. In the case of the Netscape Navigator browser, several key differences set it apart from Internet Explorer.
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Interface
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Netscape Navigator's interface is more bare bones, with its simple gray windows and minimal clutter. Internet Explorer has a multi-faceted interface, ideal for some advanced users but unnecessarily complicated for others.
Speed
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Though Netscape takes a little bit longer to initialize than Internet Explorer, the Netscape browser is able to offer quicker real-time browsing due to its smaller file sizes.
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Support
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Perhaps the most glaring shortcoming of Netscape Navigator is its complete lack of support and upgrades. While Internet Explorer is a current, regularly upgraded product, the Associated Press reports that Netscape Navigator was officially cancelled by AOL on Feb 1, 2009.
Security
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According to Microsoft, Internet Explorer offers "cross-site scripting filter" and "a SmartScreen Filter" to help avoid security risks. Netscape employs security certificates, but it does not have active security updates.
Compatibility
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Both browsers allow for basic Direct X, Java, and Flash compatibility. However, in terms of toolbars and other browser add-ons, Internet Explorer is more widely compatible.
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