Firefox is a completely free open-source web browser created by the Mozilla Foundation. Although many people haven't heard of it before, it is a very popular alternative to Internet Explorer. In fact, Firefox's latest version was so popular that it set the Guinness World Record for most downloaded software in a 24-hour period when it was released on June 17, 2008.



Firefox's main advantages over its competitors are its high level of security, speed and incredible customization options. It is designed to be easy-to-use, full of handy add-ons and extensions that make it more adaptable and, thereby, more beneficial for each individual user.

One great advantage of using Firefox over Internet Explorer is Firefox's seemingly limitless level of customization. Users are able to download thousands of add-ons, themes, skins, patches and much more. These add-ons allow for an almost tailor-made browser that fits each individual user.

Firefox also employs tabbed browsing, which makes browsing multiple web pages possible. A great feature that allows users to view different web pages in a single browser window, which is especially convenient for comparison shopping.

Internet Explorer 7 has since adopted this feature, but not has not implemented it as well as Firefox has. Unlike Firefox, Internet Explorer is only able to handle a few tabs at a time before it slows down considerably. Users have also cited unexpected crashes and freeze-ups when they attempt to navigate too quickly through multiple tabs.

Firefox also uses only a small amount of memory, as opposed to the large memory footprint of its rival, Internet Explorer. Firefox 3 has an even smaller footprint than its predecessors. What does this mean? Basically, the program takes less computer memory when you open it, and even less memory to keep it running. Firefox also contains an incredibly useful recovery feature that attempts to restore a Firefox session if it should ever crash or shutdown improperly.

Lastly, Firefox's biggest advantage over Internet Explorer is its superior security. Internet Explorer users are constantly at risk of getting viruses and spyware when they browse the Internet. Firefox, on the other hand, gives users peace of mind knowing that their web browser contains superb embedded security features that protect against viruses, spyware and pop-up ads. Firefox's programmers are also constantly on the alert, and are quick to respond to anything that may be considered a security threat.

One of the main disadvantages of using Firefox, as opposed to Internet Explorer, is its incompatibility. Because Internet Explorer (IE) is often used as the standard for building and viewing websites, some web pages do not display correctly if viewed outside of IE. Similarly, pages using ActiveX and VBScript, which are not supported by Firefox. There are plug-ins available that seek to circumvent this problem, however.

Users unfamiliar with Firefox should at least download it and give it a try. Sampling a new Internet browser outside of Internet Explorer can open your eyes to a new way to experience and interact with the web. Although it's far from perfect, it's definitely worth a try!