Chances are you’re probably using Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE6 or IE7) to view this blog. In fact, you probably have a ton of stories regarding security loopholes while using this popular browser. Of course, you’re probably familiar with words such as spyware, hijack attempts, unauthorized installations and malicious phishing. And despite several updates by Microsoft for IE6, many of these problems still remain, while leaving you (and countless others) wishing for better security.

We all know that people can be defiant to change. Going beyond our zone of comfort can be an unsettling experience, especially when it comes to using browsers other than IE. Humans are also naturally lazy. Perhaps we’re too complacent to familiarize ourselves with alternative products because IE is convenientlty built into WindowXP (and the upcoming Windows Vista operating system). Or maybe we just don’t care at all, as proven by the 85% market share held by Internet Explorer.

Just recently (and after six long years), Microsoft finally released their latest web browser. IE7 now features improved security, tabbed browsing and various features already found with competing web browsers, like the increasingly popular Moziilla Firefox.

After using IE7 and the beta for several months, its proven to be a worthy successor over the previous version. Unfortunately, IE6 was already an outdated browser that set the bar very low. Any improvement was bound to look great. Moreover, the interface of IE7 leaves a lot to be desired. Overall, IE7 feels more like a reactive move by Microsoft than a pro-active one.

Will the release of IE7 be enough to halt any momentum gained by Firefox? There’s already been numerous reports of security holes and flaws with IE7. These flaws may even prevent you from downloading it. I hope it doesn’t take another five years for a major update to appear.

The new version of the Firefox web browser was released yesterday. Containing major enhancements and a cleaner interface, Firefox 2 improves upon an already fast and secure browser.

Here are some features that makes Firefox 2 a superior web browser:

1. Enhanced spell checking
2. Reliable phishing protection
3. Security from spyware
4. Stability
5. Cross platform functionality with Mac or Linux
6. Open source development and constant updates
7. Additional RSS features

Another main reason for Firefox’s increasing popularity is the user’s ability to extend its functionality through extensions. There are countless extensions available for download to help you get the most out of this browser. They’re also FREE!

Here are my top 10 extensions for Firefox:

1. Adblock - Removes ads and promotional tools
2. Adblock Filterset.G Update - Used in conjunction with Adblock that updates new sets of filters to prevent any new ads from appearing
3. Fasterfox - Performance and network tweaks
4. Allow Right Click - This extension will bypass any script that stops you from using the right click button
5. NoScript - Extra protection that prevents Javascript, Java and other plugins
6. Flashblock - Replaces flash objects with a button so you can click to view them
7. GooglePreview - Inserts web site previews in google and yahoo search results
8. Add Bookmark here - A convenient way to add bookmarks
9. IE Tab - Allows you to view IE pages within Firefox
10. Tab Mix Plus - Tab browsing with an added boost

As you probably can tell by now, as evidenced by the blue button on the right sidebar, I’m an avid Firefox user. Until Microsoft comes up with constant upgrades, reliable security features and extensions supported by Firefox, I’ll be staying away from IE7 for a very long time.

Why not take a chance? Download Firefox 2. You won’t be dissapointed (unless your resistant to change).

Until then, I hope you don’t fall prey to any IE7 flaws and security issues.