How to Change Web Browsers

Changing Your default web browser takes only a few minutes.

The web browser is one of the most essential software components of a modern computer. If you spend a lot of time online, odds are you will be spending quite a bit of time using a web browser. Sometimes, however, the default web browser that is installed on your computer is not the one you prefer to use. Changing to the web browser of your choice isn't a difficult process.

Instructions

1. Determine the alternative web browser that you wish to use. The default for most computers is Microsoft Internet Explorer--it comes pre-installed on computers that run Microsoft's Windows operating system. The most popular alternatives include Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Opera and Safari.

2. Download the installation file for the web browser you wish to use. These will be available through the websites of the individual developers, as well as the "Downloads" sections of reputable technology websites such as CNET or PC World.

3. Install the alternative web browser. This is usually a matter of simply opening the installation file once it has completed downloading, then following the onscreen prompts.

4. Open your new web browser. The installation process will usually place on icon for the new web browser on your desktop.

5. Confirm that you would like to use the new browser as the default web browser on your computer. This tells your computer to open the new browser any time a separate program, such as your email client, tries to open a web page.

6. Import your favorites and configuration from your previous web browser, if you wish. This isn't a required step, but it can be helpful if you have a great deal of favorites that you wish to maintain in the new browser.

7. Restart your computer. Restarting your computer after installing any new software is a good idea because it ensures that any changes made to the computer during the installation process are saved.

Tips & Warnings

• In the event that an icon for the new web browser does not appear on your desktop, a program group should have been created for it on the Start menu.

• Web browsers have different strengths and weaknesses, depending on what your primary activities are. For example, some browsers offer higher speed, while others provide enhanced social media options. For the best experience, look into the features offered by different browsers in order to choose the one that fits you best.

• Be sure that you download any new software either directly from the developer or from a trusted website. Many third-party websites transmit spyware, viruses, or trojans by embedding them in freely-offered software.

References

• Microsoft: Change Your Default Web Browser
• Switching to Mozilla Firefox

Resources

• PC World
• CNET