With 95 per cent of the browser market in its clutches, it's a fair guess that Internet Explorer is your window to the web. Installed on all new PCs and the software of choice for both dial-up and broadband ISPs (though AOL heavily disguises it), IE's omnipresence ensures other browsers barely get a look in.
However, just because it's provided as standard with Windows doesn't necessarily mean it's the best tool for the job. Many decent alternatives are available for your web surfing needs, from seasoned browsers like Netscape and Opera to young upstarts such as Avant Browser. Some use their own technology to promise faster, simpler operation than Internet Explorer, while others try to adapt and improve Microsoft's browsing behemoth.
Here are our reviews of the latest versions of the most popular free web browsers to find out what each has to offer in terms of features, ease of use and performance.
Firefox 2.0 is the most well-rounded web browser currently available. Now faster, more secure, and more customisable, it really will improve your online experience.
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Opera is fast, fun and innovative. It is compatible with all major web standards and is common on a variety of different devices including mobile phones and Nintendo's Wii console.
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IE7 includes built-in tabbed browsing, anti-phishing technology, an RSS reader, and a redesigned Favorites Center. It's also now the easiest of all browsers to use.
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Owned by AOL and based on Firefox technology, Netscape uniquely lets you switch between the default Firefox mode, and an Internet Explorer version...
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Flock is a new browser and shows great promise. Built on top of Firefox, it is a functional browser with excellent features, including tabbed browsing.
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Avant Browser is by far the smallest download at less than 2MB. Upon installing, you are presented with a colourful interface, festooned with contrasting icons.
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