Over the last few years we’ve visited a wide diversity of clients and completed a large range of different web projects. When talking to clients we always try to assertain their current level of computer knowledge and then talk to them on that level so that they understand what we’re saying and where we’re coming from. One thing we’ve noticed over time is that some clients are either still using old, outdated versions of web browsers or, in an even worse case scenario, weren’t even aware that updated versions were available.
Reasons you should you keep your browser up-to-date?
There are many reasons that you should keep your web browser up-to-date and we’ve listed some of the more important ones below.
- Security issues (very important) – older browsers tend to have more security vunerabilities than newer ones as development is no longer on-going for that particular version. That means that if a hacker finds a security hole in the older version of the browser then that hole will not be patched as the developers don’t support it any more, therefore the security hole remains and your details and system may be at risk as a result of it. Of course, you should always ensure that you have good anti-virus and firewall software installed on your PC too, before you go online.
- Modern websites may not display properly (very important) – a good web developer will provide alternate coding for older browsers if their client requires it. However, some of the more modern websites contain visual effects and layouts that may not be supported by an old version of a web browser and the pages may not display properly to customers and users viewing your site if the developer hasn’t accouted for this. We always ask clients about the different browser versions their site needs to support before we write a single line of code for a project. You should be aware that not everyone does this and just because your site looks correct to you, it may not do to other people viewing it. Always encourage your users to upgrade to a modern web browser to ensure they’re safe and your site is being presented in the correct way.
- You may be missing out on great browsing features – newer versions of web browsers usually contain some new features that will simply never be found in the older versions. These features may be something like in-built rss feeds, or browsing in privacy options, plus a whole range of others. Basically you’re missing out on a better web experience if you’re still using an old program.
- All of the popular web browsers are free to download and use – there is absolutely no charge at all. You can protect yourself online, see web pages as they’re meant to be viewed and take advantage of better features all at no cost to you.
How do I update my browser?
So you’ve now decided that using an up-to-date browser is the right thing for you, so how do you go about getting the latest version? Just click the download links below.
Internet Explorer – Download Internet Explorer (PC Only)
Firefox – Download Firefox (available for PC and Mac – this is the browser we recommend you use on PC)
Safari – Download Safari (available for PC and Mac – this is the browser we recommend you use on Mac and it’s usually installed as standard on Macs)
Opera – Download Opera (available for PC and Mac)
If you’re using Windows XP or above then you should ensure that Automatic Updates are turned on so that you always get the latest updates for your machine, including browser updates. If you’re working on a Mac, then you you can use the Software Update feature in the Apple menu to obtain the latest programs.
Final thoughts
We hope that you’ve found this article to be useful. The next time you’re having any web design work done, whether we’re doing it for you or another company is make sure they’re aware of your web browser requirements and build your site accordingly.
Of course by that time you’ll already be using a safe and modern web browser, right?