How to Compare Different Web Browsers

Web browsers, while allowing you to view text and images online, have unique appearances and a variety of different add-ons to increase their functionality. Web browsers aren't just guided by whether you use a Mac or PC, but your personal preference as well. Browsers are relatively easy to install and uninstall, so you can always try a few and see which you like best.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

View System Requirements of Each Web Browser

1. Learn more about system requirements by visiting each browser's download page (see Resources below).
2. Write down the requirements of the different browsers you're interested in using.
3. Compare the requirements to your PC's capabilities. From the Start menu, select My Computer and View System Information. Locate the General tab, and view your processor speed and available memory.

Read More About Web Browsers

4. Learn more about each Web browser by visiting the manufacturer's Web site (see Resources below).
5. Check FAQs to learn more about the Web browser and its advantages. You will see a link to FAQs either on the browser's download page or on the Help page.
6. Read ConsumerSearch's article comparing a selection of popular browsers for more help in comparison shopping (see Resources below).

Install Your New Web Browser

7. Choose the Web browser that you would like to install.
8. Visit the home page of the Web browser (see Resources).
9. Click 'Download' or 'Download Now' to begin the download process.
10. Click 'Save File' in the dialog box.
11. Choose 'Next' to begin installation. Click 'Next' in the following prompts as the installation process continues.
12. Click 'Finish' to complete.

Launch Your New Web Browser

13. Locate your Web browser by clicking 'Start' and then continuing to 'All Programs.'
14. Select the new Web browser from the drop-down menu and double-click to launch it.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't count out a specific Web browser because of its appearance. Some Web browsers allow you to change the appearance with a different theme, or alter the size and color of fonts, links and more.
• Be sure you check a browser's basic system requirements before you install it. Most requirements are listed on a browser's download page.
• If you need help while using a Web browser, access the browsers Help menu, or visit the manufacturer's Web site for tutorials, troubleshooting and FAQs.
• Always update your Web browser to ensure your browsing safety. Updates generally contain important security updates or patches.