Facility Managers, Is It Time To Update Your Internet Browser?

by Kenton Gray on July 9, 2014
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It can be easy to get in a browser “rut” where we download our favorite version and casually ignore the updates that come along. This is not a good habit to form! Software like iOffice run optimally on the most recent browser version. Here are a list of browsers we recommend, and why you should keep them up-to-date. 

Why Updating Your Browser Matters

Security

While there are many options available for web browsers, many facility managers tend to find one they like and stick with it. It becomes a Internet browser options for facilities managers to updatefamiliar part of their browsing experience, and they do not want changes so they tend to ignore any update messages. Years ago, when browsers were first released security wasn’t as serious an issue as it is today. 

Unfortunately, the Internet has its own share of pitfalls. If you browse with an outdated browser, you run the risk of encountering a variety of security threats, including: identity theft, viruses or malware. Thankfully, developers of these browsers are hard at work constantly creating faster, more secure and efficient browsers that are designed to maximize your experience while improving safety. 

Speed 

Have you noticed that your favorite browser seems to be slowing down? Perhaps sites that previously loaded lightning-quick are now loading in the time it takes you to finish your first cup of coffee. This is one indication that your browser of choice may be overdue for an update One of the benefits of keeping your browser up-to-date, you also increase your ability to browse at the maximum speed provided by your Internet provider. 

Appearance 

If you have not updated your favorite browser in a while, you may start to encounter your favorite websites looking a little different, maybe certain pictures not loading correctly, or written content showing up in a different font. This is another benefit of keep your browser up-to-date. While most websites support older versions of some browsers, you will have to check to make sure your favorite websites support yours. Otherwise, you run the risk of not being able to use your favorite browser to view your favorite sites!

Which Browser Is Best

The answer to which browser is best will often change based on an individual user basis. Some may feel Internet Explorer works best; however, a different user may feel Google Chrome provides the best web browsing experience. Regardless of which browser you decided to use, we have summarized each one for you below.

Safari 

This is the default browser for Apple users, and many feel that it works better with Apple-related products. Users also say that scrolling is smoothest on this browser. If you have an iPhone, and like cover flow (the main images that represent your frequently-visited history) then you may want to stick with Safari. Safari also has an elegant “reader” section that organizes all of your recent articles in one place so you can access them at a later date. However, Safari is prone to crashing unexpectedly and can act slower than other browsers. To download Safari click here

Latest Version: 5.1.7 

Google Chrome

Known for being simplistic and low-maintenance, Google’s Chrome is quickly out-performing it’s famous counterparts. The latest version of Chrome is touting that it is the fastest browser out there. This is also the most widely used, with 33% of internet users opting in. Chrome isn’t perfect however, it does use up quite a bit of memory, and if you accidentally close a browser, it closes all the tabs without warning. With that being said, a number of iOffice customers have expressed support for this browser and say that it allows them to access iOffice software with the smoothest experience possible.  To download Chrome click here

Latest Version: Chrome 35 

Firefox

As far as downloading speed goes, Firefox tends to be the winner. It is also quite popular, with 22% of internet users choosing Firefox over any other. This browser is also known for having a strong pop-up blocking system and is extremely secure. Firefox does have a few compatibility issues with certain sites, and takes more memory to run than its similar competitors. To download Firefox click here

Latest Version: Gecko 30

Internet Explorer 

One of the first browsers, Internet Explorer was developed by Microsoft back in 1995. IE is known for allowing users to stream video fairly easily, without any additional downloads. As one of the oldest browsers, it supports a broad range of applications. In fact, some users of iOffice’s Visitor and Mail Modules have expressed their support of Internet Explorer’s ability to provide a smooth experience, especially if using mobile devices (such as PDA’s). However, the latest version has been criticized for its slower speeds, and customization of the toolbar is also limited.   To download Internet Explorer click here. 

Latest Version: Explorer 11

How Often Should FMs Update

Between updating your phone, computer software and iTunes account, we know it can get confusing as to what is up-to-date and what is not. It’s best to check every month to see if your browser is in its best form. Set a calendar reminder to alert you to complete a manual check. Thankfully, most newer browsers alert you when a new version of your favorite browser is available, so all you need to do is simply click that notification message, and follow the installation prompts. However, if you are more comfortable with setting a calendar reminder to alert you to manually check for an update, that works equally well. The important thing to remember is that by using the most up-to-date browsers available, you maximize both your safety and browsing experience.   

Resources:

http://www.wisegeek.org/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-firefox.htm  

http://mshand-it103.blogspot.com/2012/03/safari-web-browser-advantages-and.html

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kenton Gray

Kenton joined iOFFICE in 2002 as the company’s Chief Technology Officer and now manages a team of ten developers and programmers. When we develop a new module or do a major upgrade, Kenton is the one who envisions the project and designs it from scratch.

Capterra Ratings: ★★★★★ 4.5/5