Web Browsers

Web Browsers are applications that allow access to the Internet via web pages, videos, images, and other content . This includes downloading, uploading and editing of information on web pages. The primary function of browsers is to relay information to the user, which is usually done using HTML - the language of the Internet. The first web browser was created by Tim Berners-Lee in 1991 and was called WorldWideWeb.

Today, there are many different web browsers that have varying capabilities and features that make them preferable to different user bases. From the very minimal - text only - to the more modern multiple format support applications. Currently, the top four most popular browsers are: Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome and Safari, respectively. http://www.netmarketshare.com/browser-market-share.aspx?qprid=1&qpcal=1&qpcal=1&qpstick=0 As mobile internet connections become more ubiquitous, mobile browsers have been also become more popular. Some mobile browsers include: Opera Mobile, Firefox for Mobile (Fennec), and the Android Browser. These mobile browsers allow for web browsing on smaller devices such as cell phones and mp3 players.

Differences in Browsers

Due to the popularity of the Internet, there have been many web browsers developed to help aid the user to navigate the web. The success of a particular browser depends on what sets it apart from the others. In the case of Internet Explorer, it was the first to be bundled with the Windows operating system which gave it the accessibility and ease of use advantage - which quickly had it become the most popular browsing software.

Firefox is known for its ability to be customized to great extents with add-ons. This allows the user to make the browser feel more personal when used and helps the user navigate the web more easily. In addition Firefox is more secure than Internet Explorer, which led to its fast adoption rate.

Chrome is Google's browser and its focus is on speed. Whether it's browser launch time or page load speeds, Chrome consistently aims to improve it's speed.