Why You Should Use Firefox 3.0 Over Internet Explorer

Mozilla's Firefox 3.0 is still somewhat new software, however with new implements and improvements, it is more than a possible alternative to Microsoft's Internet Explorer.

Pros: Firefox has a tiny installation file at 4.9 MBs, browsing through tabs, keyboard shortcut features, integrated pop-up blocking, integrated Google search box, large area for viewing, compatibility with Internet Explorer shortcuts, favorites, and cookies, a sleek interface, a user friendly setup, and no large security gaps.

Cons: Images load 1/3 slower than Internet Explorer, browser plugins such as Shockwave and Flash require extra effort to install, some Javascripts do not run in Firefox . A few online bank systems and other websites protected by passwords are not made to allow users of Firefox.

Overall: Despite the minute flaws, Firefox is an awesome browser which soon may unseat Microsoft's Internet Explorer from its throne.

Best Features of Firefox

1. Firefox is an incredibly lean browser. At a small 4.9MBs to both download and install, Firefox is far from overweight. In contrast, Microsoft's Internet Explorer weighs a heavy 80MB.

2. Firefox has a plethora of shortcuts available through keystrokes. Anyone from power users to noobies will find navigation a breeze.

3. Pop-up blocking is integrated. Firefox will instantly block those annoying advertisements automatically. No more need for software from third parties. Simply set your Firefox options to block pop-ups.

4. Feature for Power Users: Firefox has the capability of stopping JavaScript code from resizing your window or hiding your status bar.

5. A much larger viewing area than Internet Explorer. Firefox 's smaller toolbars can fit almost 10% viewing space more onto your monitor.

6. Simply type keywords into your Firefox URL bar and Firefox will automatically do a Google search.

7. Increased security through website verification. Firefox will automatically warn you if you are about to access a malicious website. Malicious websites will be color coded red, and conversely, verified websites have a green color coding towards the left of the URL.

Firefox's Best Feature

Firefox was the first browser to introduce tabbed browsing. Tabbed browsing is a sleek and efficient way to browse multiple windows at the same time. Rather than loading another memory intensive window, each tab of Firefox will add less than 1MB of load. Firefox tabs allow you to multi-task while waiting for other sites to load. As the originator, Firefox handles the creation of many more windows tabs than Internet Explorer.

Firefox is both faster and safer than Internet Explorer, and has a ton of customization potential. What are you waiting for? Make the switch!

If you enjoy Firefox already, make sure to check out my optimizing Firefox tutorial.