How to Choose a Web Browser for Safety

Thanks to the know-how of programmers everywhere, the Internet has become a place where scripting and embedded code make pages come alive. With these added features on some Web pages, you can have a better browsing experience, but unfortunately, these features also make your more vulnerable online. Viruses or unwanted software can all add to security threats. When you choose a browser, the safety features should be one of the first things you investigate.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Learn About Common Security Concerns

1. Know that Internet Explorer is closely integrated with your operating system, which can add security risks. Users who don't select Internet Explorer's more advanced security settings may be putting their system at risk.

2. Know that Web browser programmers can patch security breaches quickly. The smaller the Web browser company you choose, the faster the patch will most likely be released.

3. Use more than one Web browser for different activities, such as Internet Explorer for browsing and Mozilla Firefox for financial transactions. This way, you can keep your data safe.

4. Check your encryption. Make sure it's 128 bit, in combination with the latest version of your Web browser.

5. Consider what information you have stored on your computer. If you have sensitive or classified data saved on your computer, it's best to use a different computer to browse the Internet.

Learn About Mozilla Firefox's Safety Features

6. Know that Mozilla Firefox is not integrated with Windows. This can help prevent hackers from entering your computer and compromising the data on it.

7. Consider that Mozilla has no support for ActiveX. ActiveX has been known to compromise the security of Web browsers.

8. Enjoy controlling cookies on your computer when you choose Mozilla Firefox.

9. Learn more about Firefox's safety features by reading the description posted on Mozilla's Web site (see Resources below).

Learn About Internet Explorer's Safety Features

10. Use the Safety Scanner from Windows Live OneCare (see Resources below). You can protect and clean your computer on a regular basis.

11. Review Microsoft's Safety Center for more details (see Resources below).

Learn About Netscape's Safety Features

12. Know that the Netscape Web browser automatically checks the Web site you visit against its list of suspected scam or spyware sites.

13. Know that the Netscape Web browser automatically adjusts its security settings when accessing higher risk sites.

14. Check Netscape's Free Software Upgrade page frequently to be sure you've got the latest in protection (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• If you're going to download a new browser, be sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements first.
• Browser help is available through the Help menu (available in your browser window) or through the software manufacturer's Web site (look for FAQs and user forums).
• Sign up for email alerts, if they're offered by your browser's creator (Microsoft, Mozilla, etc.). These can give you more information on security concerns and developments with your browser.