What are the browsers for accessing the Internet. Rating: "Best Browsers for Windows"

Today it is impossible to imagine working on the Internet without using browsers. They have become so commonplace that people don't even notice them.

Unfortunately, the consequence of such an attitude is ignorance of elementary issues related to Internet browsers, and, as a result, problems with finding the necessary information, inefficient use of system resources, and much more.

We will try to tell you what browsers are and why they are needed. But let's start with definitions.

What is a browser?

Before studying a concept, it is always a good idea to define it.

A browser is software designed to browse the web, manage and operate web applications, explore the contents of web documents, and more. In other words, this is a multifunctional product that has become an integrated system for processing incoming data and providing user interaction with the Global Web.

They are distributed and updated completely free of charge, often being an element of the operating system.

The emergence of browsers

The very first browser appeared back in 1990 thanks to the efforts of the outstanding scientist Tim Berners-Lee, the creator of the Internet. It was called - WorldWideWeb, and later received the name Nexus.

However, this program did not find popular love, and now only a few fans and historians remember it. NCSA Mosaic, which formed the basis of the famous Internet Explorer and the lesser-known Netscape Navigator, gained real popularity.

Photo: launch of one of the very first browsers

The latter was developed for a wide variety of operating systems, from Unix to MAC OS. This was the reason for the disappearance of Netscape - Windows, which was gaining strength in those years, came with a built-in Explorer, which was primarily intended to work in this OS.

We can say that in 1995 there was the first war in the Internet browser market, in which the brainchild of Microsoft defeated all its rivals, becoming a monopolist for many years.

The source code of Netscape formed the basis of Mozilla, which at one time turned into the "Fire Fox" (from English Firefox - a fiery fox).

In 1995, Opera appeared, a very interesting program at that time, but its shareware distribution greatly reduced the popularity of the project in Europe and the USA. The fallacy of this measure was recognized by the creators only in 2005.

As you can see, much has changed since then, but only one thing has remained constant - the irreconcilable struggle of observers with each other. A war in which all means were used to win. But that has nothing to do with the topic of this article.

Video: Review

What are the browsers for the computer

Above we have already given several names.

We believe that the time has come to talk about them in more detail.

Advantages and disadvantages

We figured out what browsers are for desktop and mobile devices. Now we will try to answer the question, what are their strengths and weaknesses. Let's start, of course, with the recent owner of the market.

Internet Explorer

Advantages

Flaws

Opera

Advantages

Flaws

Google Chrome

Advantages

Flaws

Mozilla Firefox

Advantages

Flaws

Yandex browser

Advantages

Many people tend to use the same browser for years that they once liked because of its user-friendly interface or appearance. However, there are a lot of browsers, they are updated and improved, so it can be difficult to understand which one is better. Below are 10 good web browsers that work for free.

Note! This list is not ordered in order of preference.

Supported platforms: Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, iOS, Chrome OS.

When Google first introduced Chrome in 2009, it quickly gained popularity because it was the fastest web browser at the time. Now he has competitors.

Apart from the basic browser features like bookmark management, extensions, themes, incognito mode, etc., another feature that deserves attention is profile management. It allows multiple people to use the same browser without receiving browsing history, downloads, and other information. For users who are annoyed by ads, Google is about to launch an ad filter for Chrome.

Another thing that makes Chrome one of the best apps is cross-device support. The web browser can easily sync your browsing history, tabs, bookmarks, passwords, etc. across all devices if you are logged into your Google account.

2 Mozilla Firefox

Supported platforms: Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, iOS, BSD (unofficial port).

In 2017, Firefox returned to the market with new version Firefox 57 called Quantum. The new Firefox is much faster than its predecessors. The updated user interface of Firefox and many new features attract many users. The built-in tool that allows you to take screenshots from the screen is one of the most convenient unique features.

3.Microsoft Edge

Everyone knows that Microsoft released Edge to maintain the lost respect for their old Internet Explorer browser. Now it seems that Edge is undeniably one of the best apps for Windows 10, and more recently for Android and iOS.

Of course, few people after using browsers such as Chrome or Mozilla will want to switch to a new browser, but Microsoft has something to offer its potential users.

These features include:

• you can set aside tabs to make room for new browser tabs;
• one section provides access to bookmarks, search history, downloads, etc.;
• The built-in Notes extension is very useful, it allows you to add notes, highlight something, write, and also save a web page on your device.

As far as extensions go, this can be a bit of a downside. Microsoft Edge only has 76 supported extensions, all available from the Microsoft Store. One of the reasons it makes sense to switch to Edge is that it integrates better with Windows 10 than any other browser.

Video - Best Internet Browsers for Windows

4 Opera

Supported platforms: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS, basic phones.

It is well known to those who have had to use it on Java-enabled push-button mobile phones. This is probably the oldest web browser currently in active development. However, it has improved enough to find it on the list of the best internet browsers for Windows and other operating systems. It is often considered the best alternative to Firefox.

The PC version of the web browser includes some features that were previously reserved for smartphones, such as data compression mode and battery saver.

Other features of this browser include the following:

You can use Opera to get daily news with the Personal News feature, where you can add news sources of your choice.

5. Chromium is an open source alternative to Chrome

Supported platforms: Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, BSD.

In appearance and performance, Chromium is the same as Chrome

If you are currently using Google Chrome, you will have no problem switching to its open source counterpart, which is also available on Linux systems.

In appearance and performance, Chromium is the same as Chrome. You can sign in with your Google account, sync data, download extensions, and more. However, there are differences that may help users make the best choice. For example, this Chrome browser alternative does not support automatic updates, does not come with a built-in player, does not support proprietary audio codecs, etc.

Note! Chromium is being developed as a speed release, which means that features are built into a new build more often than Chrome, on an almost daily basis. This is the reason why an open source browser can crash more often than Chrome.

6. Vivaldi - customizable browser

Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.

Vivaldi is only one year old, but he still ranks among the top web browsers. It was created by Opera Software co-founder John Stevenson von Techchner and Tatsuki Tomita. When using Vivaldi, you'll quickly notice its responsive interface that changes to match the color scheme of the website you're browsing. Being a Chromium-enabled browser, it supports Chrome extensions.

The browser is very similar to Opera, it has the same sidebar on the left side. But the ability to customize the address bar, tab bar, and more makes Vivaldi the best web browser. Additional customizations include adding custom keyboard shortcuts and mouse actions to taste.

7. Torch Browser - browser for downloading torrent files

Supported platforms: Windows.

It may not be as popular as Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, but Torch Browser certainly deserves a spot on the top 10 internet browsers list. This is because of the features it provides. If you're a fan of the BitTorrent world, you'll love Torch Browser because it comes with a built-in torrent downloader.

There is a media grabber that can be used to download streaming video and audio files from web pages. It seems that this top web browser, which also includes a download accelerator, is intended primarily for users who download material every day. The browser can also play partially downloaded videos and torrents.

8. Maxthon Cloud Browser

Supported platforms: Windows, MacOS Linux, Android, iOS, Windows Phone.

Maxthon, in existence since 2002, was developed primarily as a web browser for Windows, but versions for other platforms have appeared later. The developers are promoting Maxthon as a cloud browser. However, the PR gimmick no longer seems exclusive as almost all browsers now support cloud syncing.

The free web browser has many useful tools:

• to capture video from web pages;
• built-in Adblock Plus;
• night mode;
• mail client;
• password manager;
• note-taking tool, etc.

It also provides access to common Windows tools such as Notepad, Calculator, etc.

9. Safari - Made for Apple Fans

Supported platforms: macOS, iOS.

It can be a good alternative to Google Chrome and Firefox. Safari was previously available for Windows, but Apple bought it out a few years ago. This web browser can now only be used by macOS and iOS users.

The web browser includes a customizable toolbar, tab search, browsing in reading mode, iCloud sync, and more. Like the Share button in Edge, Safari users can share their content with AirDrop without even leaving the web browser .

10. UC Browser - Fast Browser Made in China

Supported platforms: Windows, Android, iOS, basic phones.

UC Browser is already considered one of the best web browsers for Android. The look and feel of the PC version of UC Browser is as attractive as other well-known browsers we see on the market. UC Browser has a built-in password manager and cloud sync capabilities with other devices. Many users are attracted to the built-in VPN.

When choosing a browser for daily use, you should pay attention to the following characteristics: security, reliability, convenience and speed in work, as well as support for w3c standards for the correct display of pages. Also, the browser should not have malfunctions and slow down, as well as load as quickly as possible. So which browser is better? As a result of the selection according to these criteria, we have compiled the top 10 best browsers in 2019, which includes both already recognized idols and equally convenient, but not so sensational solutions. The pleasant fact is that all the browsers included in the list of the best are free. So, from our article you will learn about modern browsers, a rating of the best of them, about their pros and cons.

Google Chrome is the best browser for Windows. It features a fairly simple interface, a convenient navigation bar, and high startup speed: that's what ordinary users want from a browser. The Chrome start page is not oversaturated with unnecessary information, but at the same time it contains only the most necessary things: the address bar, settings, forward-back arrows and the refresh key. The browser is updated quite often and automatically. One of the downsides is the fact that the publisher uses the browser to promote their other projects, as well as collect user data.

Advantages

Flaws

1. As a result of authorization in Google services, the company may collect user information;
2. You need a lot of RAM when opening a large number of tabs;
3. Demanding users will find the design simple.

Opera

Opera is a browser developed by programmers from Opera Software that can be downloaded to almost any device: computer, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet and game console. It is most popular in Russia and the CIS countries due to its flexible configuration and high usability.

One of the distinguishing features is the Opera Turbo button, with which your favorite sites load faster and at the same time save traffic if the device is connected to slow internet. In addition to speeding up the download, the button also ensures the security of personal data: bank cards, passwords, etc.

New versions come with voice control, useful innovations in terms of interface and functionality that improve performance and save user time.
Opera boasts fast operation, convenient surfing and high security. The browser can block unwanted pop-ups, provide a secure connection using a VPN, and other useful things.

Advantages

1. Has an integrated free VPN with which you can access some blocked sites;
2. Comfortable transition between pages;
3. Sophisticated multi-window interface;
4. Toolbar customization;
5. It does not need to be deleted - there is no important data in the registry;
6. Loads websites quickly
7. There is a store with plugins;
8. Russified interface;
9. The most popular search engines are integrated;
10. Ability to check spelling while typing;
11. Can block banners and pop-ups;
12. "Kiosk mode" - viewing information without access to a computer;
13. The ability to synchronize bookmarks on different devices on the webkit engine;
14. The ability to quickly open multiple tabs using the express panel;
15. The text and graphics of the site are displayed even before the page is fully loaded, there is a "Turbo" mode;
16. The Opera mail client and the Yandex Maps cartographic service are integrated into the browser;
17. You can control navigation and settings using the keyboard, mouse gestures;
18. Change the scale of the page, customizable fonts and colors;
19. The presence of widgets;
20. Security and automatic checking of sites for "phishing" modules;
21. Fairly frequent release of new versions.

Flaws

1. Possible problems with Javascript.

Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is a free, fast, comfortable browser with a lot of features. It will suit both experienced users and beginners in the world of the Internet. Mozilla Firefox boasts a huge number of compatible plugins and add-ons, as well as elements from Yandex, which also provide the best experience.

Mozilla Firefox does not impose restrictions on the user's activities, but provides him with a stable and uninterrupted work on the Internet. We warn you that at first glance, the Firefox browser may seem complicated for a new user, so we advise you to first familiarize yourself with the proposed extensions and features. It won't take long and your hard work will pay off. No wonder this browser is one of the most popular in the world.

Advantages

1. Full browser customization according to your preferences both on PC and mobile;
2. There are visual bookmarks (an integrated panel with the ability to edit);
3. Translation of a word from any language when hovering over it;
4. Loads sites and content in general quickly;
5. Can block malicious sites, suspicious banners and other harmful content;
6. Built-in reading mode;
7. Fast web applications;
8. Important bookmarks are displayed directly on the start page;
9. You can enter your request directly in the address bar;
10. Default search setting;
11. Tools for web development;
12. Ability to view text files PDF, TXT, RTF, FB2, DOC, etc.;
13. Live Bookmarks or "live bookmarks" can integrate RSS feeds;
14. Automatic spell check of the entered text;
15. Close integration with Yandex services;
16. Password manager with the ability to save data and the subsequent ability to autofill;
17. You can work with a large number of tabs without brakes;
18. Prompt free technical support;
19. Official store with a huge set of add-ons and plugins (Adblock and NoScript will ensure security when using Mozilla Firefox);

Flaws

1. Removed support for Adobe Flash Player;
2. The font used is different from the ClearType used by most browsers.

Yandex browser

Yandex.Browser boasts a reliable security system, a built-in website translator, the ability to transfer settings from other browsers, and the presence of popular widgets. The creators of this creation are successful in their experiments. To date, one can hardly call any of the browsers more innovative.

Yandex created a browser for those who appreciate comfortable, fast and safe surfing. And if you download Yandex Browser on the Chromium engine, then all the necessary data from your previous browser will be immediately transferred to it. In addition, it can be synchronized with other browsers using a Google account and work with email. The browser works on all current operating systems (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android).

Advantages

1. According to the results of many tests, it loads web pages faster than competitors;
2. Supports Adobe Flash Player, without which certain files cannot be viewed;
3. "Smart address bar" is able to recognize requests and site addresses, give you hints both in text and in a picture;
4. The ability to synchronize important data with various devices and browsers on the chromium engine;
5. Innovations from the company as a "Smart Line" and "Scoreboard", which greatly simplify management and obtain up-to-date information;
6. Compatible with Opera and Google store extensions;
7. Turbo mode - reduces traffic consumption, speeds up loading, allows you to access blocked resources;
8. Integrated defender - the Protect function scans pages and files for the presence of malware and using the development of Kaspersky Lab, and also saves your passwords;
9. Own dictionary that allows you to check the typed text for spelling errors;
10. The ability to quickly change the search engine in the address period;
11. Interface customization;
12. The ability to quickly translate a word, text or an entire site into the selected language;
13. Can view TXT, PDF, DOCX, FB2, EPUB, PPTX;
14. Ability to continue interrupted downloads;
15. Notifications from social networks;
16. Ability to control with gestures;
17. The ability to read articles from Wikipedia without visiting the site;
18. Anonymous browsing sites;
19. Synchronized with both Google and Yandex;
20. Extensions increase the set of useful features;
21. Closely integrated with own maps and other tools: mail, cloud storage, etc.;
22. In addition to the computer, there are also versions for mobile devices on Android and iOS;
23. Can work for everyone Windows versions since XP.

Flaws

1. Small icons for pinned tabs.

Yandex browser

Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge was introduced to the world at the same time as the release of Windows 10. This browser is fast and comfortable with a simple interface. The product is quite high quality, as it supports absolutely all modern Internet technologies.

Advantages

1. With Cortana, you can search using the Windows address bar;
2. With SmartScreen technology, your personal information is under reliable protection;
3. Reading mode, which removes images, widgets, interstitials and everything that distracts you from the page;
4. The browser supports Flash inside a separate process, so autoplay videos will not be applied;
5. Full customization;
6. The browser shell looks good;
7. Less energy consuming compared to other browsers;
8. The ability to quickly create text and graphic notes;
9. Ability to control voice;
10. Good work speed;
11. Necessary tools for development.

Flaws

1. Complicated process of changing the standard search engine;
2. There are only two themes - light and dark;
3. If you want to run the browser on Windows 7, then you will need to install a virtual machine.

Apple Safari

Safari is a browser developed by Apple specifically for Mac OS, but nowadays it can be used as the main browser for Windows computers. Its distinctive features are a concise simple interface and fast work. Unlike the mobile counterpart, the desktop version supported Flash from the very beginning for viewing content online. Therefore, problems using this browser did not cause.

Advantages

1. Integrated mail client;
2. Nice toolbar;
3. Interface customization;
4. Hints from the address bar;
5. Autocomplete forms;
6. Ability to open multiple tabs from one window;
7. Supports TSL, CSS, SSL2, SSL3 protocols;
8. Available search through Google, Yahoo, Bing;
9. Security of personal information;
10. Pages and browsing history are displayed as thumbnails;
11. Watching videos on web resources;
12. Works well in full screen mode;
13. Regular updates from Apple;
14. Laconic design of the browser and download manager;
15. Works fast and contains branded features;
16. Synchronized with iCloud, integrated with Twitter, Facebook;
17. Supports HTML5 Geolocation;
18. Uses modern encryption algorithms;
19. Add favorite sites to bookmarks;
20. Ability to connect add-ons and extensions;
21. Compatible with Windows 8 and 10;
22. Useful function of blocking unwanted windows and advertising banners;
23. With the help of the Nitro Engine function, surfing the Internet becomes very productive.

Flaws

1. To work properly with Windows XP and Vista, you need to install an older version of Safari.
2. Not fully disclosed in the "non-native" operating system.

Tor Browser

Tor Browser stands out as one of the best ways to secure your internet connection by encrypting your traffic in layers. The main purpose of a browser is to provide anonymity to the use of the web. Plus, with Tor, you can access blocked sites in your region.

Advantages

1. You can access blocked sites;
2. Change of IP address;
3. Anonymous use of the network, so your location will be hidden;
4. Prohibits network surveillance;
5. Built-in utilities help increase the level of anonymity;
6. When connected to the tor network, pages load faster;
7. Increased security compared to default browsers;
8. Relays traffic within the network;
9. With Vidalia, you can re-register on a blocked site;
10. Well optimized for Windows 10, Linux, Mac OS;
11. Protects Accounts and anonymity of site visits;
12. Stably receives periodic updates;
13. Works all over the world, the owner's information is subjected to multiple encryption;
14. You can install an updated graphical shell;
15. Protects a distributed network and virtual tunnels, controls the Internet connection, provides traffic analysis;
16. With the HTTPS Everywhere feature, you can quickly connect to the Tor Project servers.

Flaws

1. Tor Browser for Windows is, in fact, the basis of a set of redistributable utilities for Mozilla Firefox.

Maxthon

Maxthon made itself known back when Opera and Firefox were at the top. The browser had high hopes and breathed in the back of recognized leaders, but over time it still lost most of its audience. To this day, Maxthon receives regular updates containing new features, does not provide any radically new experience, but also implements standard features well.

Either way, Maxthon is a good browser. It has a quality build and a good set of features. But on the territory of Russia and the CIS, it has not received much distribution. But thanks to some unique features, it still made it to our top.

Advantages

1. The presence of a night mode;
2. Ability to capture the screen;
3. Comfortable toolbar;
4. Gesture control settings;
5. Plugin support;
6. Supports Adobe Flash;
7. The ability to quickly find information of interest;
8. You can manage the address bar, URL aliases;
9. Support for iOS, Android and Windows Phone;
10. If an error occurs, the session can be restored;
11. You can view multiple web pages on one screen;
12. Bookmarks can be grouped and downloaded at the same time;
13. Built-in blocker adblock ads plus;
14. Quick saving of text information in "Cloud Notepad";
15. Compatible with third-party extensions, in particular for Internet Explorer;
16. User-friendly interface;
17. Page display customization;
18. Ability to reserve the necessary information;
19. Support for Microsoft Trident, WebKit engines;
20. The ability to synchronize data with any device;
21. Compatible with Windows 10;
22. The ability to create text notes and correct errors in them;
23. Stable periodic auto-update;
24. Own cloud storage with a large amount of free space;
25. The new ad hunter does a great job of blocking malicious websites and ad content.

Flaws

1. The Russian version of Maxthon Russian Edition is installed separately.

Comodo Dragon

Comodo Dragon offers you a set modern features, increasing security and confidentiality when accessing the network. Using Chromium technology, the browser is developed by programmers from Comodo, which provides SSL certificates.

Advantages

1. Stable updates from the company;
2. Ability to quickly access controls;
3. Based on Chromium;
4. Possibility of anonymous use of the Internet using Incognito Mode, no browsing history and Cookies;
5. Built-in ability to check different web resources;
6. Pressing F11 activates full screen mode;
7. Ability to translate websites into the target language;
8. View XLS, DOC and PDF;
9. You can transfer bookmarks, history and settings from other browsers;
10. Web page printing;
11. Fast work, minimal load on RAM;
12. Built-in function that checks domains;
13. Additional features that increase security and privacy;
14. Russified interface.

Flaws

1. Does not support Windows Vista and XP.

Baidu Browser

Firstly, the designers have worked on the interface (you can easily find the right skin for you to customize the appearance of the browser), and secondly, it is tightly integrated with Facebook, and it can also upload videos.

The browser also has unique features: gesture control (open / close tab, forward / back, etc.), creating a screenshot of the screen.

Advantages

1. Works fast;
2. Simple and comfortable design: grouping of tabs at a height, the panel already has all the necessary tools;
3. You can turn off the sound on all browser tabs at once;
4. The built-in Facebook widget will simplify the use of the social network;
5. A huge variety of skins;
6. Gesture control;
7. Ability to take screenshots.

Flaws

1. Gestures cannot be created by yourself.

This concludes our review of browsers. These ten are the best browsers to date, in our opinion. If you use some other, in your opinion, undeservedly excluded from this top, then you are welcome in the comments under this news.

Found a typo? Select the text and press Ctrl + Enter

A browser (as it is also called a web navigator, web browser) is a special program designed to display information from the Internet on a computer or smartphone screen. This application software allows you to browse various websites, search for necessary information, open web documents and process queries.

In the era of active competitiveness in the field of browsers, it is quite difficult to surprise the demanding user and satisfy his requests. Therefore, versions of web navigators are constantly updated, optimizing already implemented functions and creating new ones. There are many worthy and convenient programs in the browser category for every taste and user needs, and our article will help you choose the best one.

Browser usage statistics

Stable, reliable and fast web browser. The interface does not "press" the user, it can be modified depending on the user's desires. Optimized Turbo and Speed ​​Dial tools allow you to increase the speed of your browser and quickly access popular pages. Privacy, spelling, downloader, password manager and spam blocker are the main advantages of the web browser.

A world-famous web browser that creates comfortable and secure conditions for the user to stay on the Internet. The software allows you to create your own file storage database - Google Drive. The possibility of various kinds of cyber-attacks and the penetration of "pests" is minimized. Smart omnibox, personalization, saving web surfing activity, translator, synchronization with mobile devices are the main, but not all, features of the utility.

World famous web browser, winner of various ratings and tests, "favorite" of many millions of users. The probability of failures is reduced to a minimum percentage, and the flexibility and speed of work in the utility is amazing. The wide functionality of the software will surprise even the most demanding user, since the Fire Fox not only optimized the work of tabs, spelling, saving history, but also made it possible to view PDF files, control parents of visits to "forbidden" sites by children, 3D support and spam blocking.

A popular web browser that deservedly ranks fourth among software in this category in terms of the number of fans. A convenient search engine allows you to use various search services, the “remembering” function opens previously closed sites, convenient work with tabs and an RSS feed are one of the main advantages of the browser.

Experimental development of the Opera company, amazing realism of work in the browser and “revival” of tabs when the cursor is touched. The developers have introduced a split-screen function, in which you can work in several tabs at the same time. The pop-up window for watching videos can be moved around the home screen, doing work and watching multimedia in parallel. The tab splash screen visually looks like a website, which makes it easier to find the desired web page. The screenshot taken from the screen can be instantly sent to a social network or by mail to a friend.

It combines the best "chips" of Opera and Chrome and is popular and in demand among users. Loading pages on a weak network, automatic page translator, Turbo mode are some of the main features of a web navigator. Web surfing through this utility is protected by the work of Kaspersky Lab, and the creators of the software synchronized its work with Yandex services and work with Yandex disk.

An easy-to-use browser that works even on older computers. It can accept the interface of popular web browsers Chrome, Opera, Mozilla, Internet Explorer and Yandex.Browser. Cyber ​​attacks through the utility are minimized, since they are not registered in the system due to their “age” of the browser.

Reliable web browser with powerful privacy protection from the well-known company Komodo. The "portability" function reproduces all settings, saved tabs and history on other computers, and the "invisible" mode will hide your web surfing from prying eyes.

Interface copy of Google Chrome. It has its own search engine of the same name, the ability to restore an interrupted session, its own file uploader and work with several social network accounts at the same time.

Compact browser with data loading speed and stability. Built-in useful plugins and a translator will make visiting web pages much easier and save time. A powerful built-in downloader and annoying spam blocker are other advantages of this web navigator.

An analogue of Internet Explorer, but with additional and optimized work and data protection. Form autocomplete and pop-up blocker make web browsing much easier for the user. With the "G" button, you can set up certain commands for quick access to them.

It is an analogue of Mozilla, but with reduced functionality and increased performance. Improved the ability to transfer all data from the Fire Fox to the Pale Moon. The start page is full of popular web services, and the bookmark of visited sites allows you to quickly navigate to them.

A browser specially designed for a 64-bit system. It is a copy of Firefox, but with improved functionality and fast web surfing speed. Built-in players and downloaders allow you to listen and download your favorite content.

A browser that has its own "cloud" storage and was created on two engines Webkit and Trident. The "isolated window" option allows the user to log into the site under different accounts. The ability to create a screenshot of the entire web browser window or a selected area, create your own “cloud” and various modes for high-quality surfing in the browser are the main features of the utility.

The browser, developed by Mail.Ru, allows you to synchronize with social networks and perform continuous work on the Internet. The built-in player allows you to create your own playlist of your favorite songs, search and play multimedia content from social networks.

Interface similar to Internet Explorer and functionally Opera. An important feature browser is a blocking from annoying spam and flash animations that interfere with normal networking. Work in the web navigator can be completely switched to the mouse by setting up its gestures with the necessary buttons in advance. "Protected View", "smart" address bar and screen capture are important advantages of this software.

It will become indispensable for the work of children on the Internet and for parents to control their safe web surfing. Tools "Stalker" and "Advertisement" recognize malicious content and block all kinds of spam. The browser has its own search of the same name and can open previously viewed sites in the absence of the Internet.

For those who continue to comprehend the Internet and what is connected with it, today we will talk about what a browser is, what it is for, and also conduct a small analysis of the most popular Internet browsers today.

What is a browser and what functions does it perform

As mentioned above, the main function of the browser is to open web pages of sites. The web pages themselves consist of code that the browser actually receives from the server on which the site is located. The browser processes this code, and you see a “finished picture” on your monitor. In order to see what the site actually is - right-click, for example, somewhere in the side of the site and select the item in the context menu that appears "View source code" (or "Page source code", or that similar). The correct source code is very important for the browser, since the adequate display of the pages of the site and the performance of its functions depend on it.

Browsers allow you to save your passwords from sites so that each time you access your account on a particular resource, you do not need to re-enter your username and password. All browsers also store a history of your visits to various sites, so that if necessary, you can find the site you previously visited. Well, the last thing worth noting from the main functionality of the browser is the ability to store sites in bookmarks for their memorization and quick access.

In addition to opening the web pages themselves, browsers allow you to download files from sites, that is, the browser downloads them. It can be programs, games, music and other files.

Modern browsers in the vast majority support various add-ons. These additions may include: extensions of browser functions, informers from various resources, as well as additions in the form of visual themes for the browser itself. Let's consider them in more detail:

• Extensions. Vivid examples of browser extensions are extensions from anti-virus programs: an anti-banner and a link checking module that protect users from intrusive advertising, and also check dangerous links and sites.


• Informers. Informers are also made in the form of extensions. As the name implies, "informers" - inform. The most popular informers are weather informers, informers about the arrival of new mail, messages, etc.


• Visual themes. Visual themes allow you to change the design of the browser: tabs, buttons, background images and other elements.

Now let's look at the most popular browsers today.

What are the browsers?

Internet Explorer is the standard browser that comes with the operating system. Windows system. That is, you will immediately be able to access the Internet through Internet Explorer. We called Internet Explorer the first not because it is the most popular or the best, but because initially everyone uses it, at least to download another browser. By the way, there is a joke on many computer Internet resources: “Internet Explorer is the program with which you can download a good browser.”

Yes, there is some truth in every joke, and as you understand, this joke appeared for a reason. The fact is that Internet Explorer (IE) in our opinion is not the most the best option browser. Firstly, it is very slow and its slowness lies not only in the work of the program itself, but also in opening pages. Secondly, the IE web pages themselves open incorrectly, as they say in the common people - "crooked". In addition, Internet Explorer is a very non-functional browser, and most importantly, its updated versions do not carry anything radically new and do not even have a hint of it. IE does not have support for extension integration and does not support visual themes, which makes it rather marginal today.

The Internet Explorer browser is mainly used by beginners who do not know, do not understand or do not really understand the concept of what a browser is and what other browsers there are besides IE. In most cases, those users who have tried other browsers never use Internet Explorer again, which is why we recommend installing another, or rather a good browser.

Internet Explorer does not require installation as it is integrated into the Windows operating system.

The most popular browser in the territory former USSR- a browser called "Google Chrome" (Russian). Chrome is a browser from Google, which is not only a popular browser, but also probably the best. By the way, Chrome is a rather young browser, but at the same time it has won a large army of fans over the course of several years of its existence.

Probably, the very first advantage of this browser is its “lightness”, which consists in fast work, both of the program itself and in the quick opening of website pages. This WEB-browser is well thought out, so it is very convenient to use. A large number of functions is also a strong point of the Google Chrome browser. Let's take a look at the functional features of Chrome separately.

In our opinion, the most important functional advantage of Google Chrome is the synchronization of passwords and bookmarks in the browser with the Google server, thanks to which, by entering your login and password, you will get access to your bookmarks and passwords after reinstalling the system or on your other gadgets. This is very convenient, because, for example, when reinstalling the system, it is not so difficult to reinstall it, as it is difficult to remember all your visited sites and passwords to them. And with Chrome, you just need to log into the Google system, and all your bookmarks and passwords will be restored. Also, from the functional features of Chrome, it is worth noting the ability to install extensions and change the design style that is available. a large number of in the Chrome Web Store, and it's free. Well, the last thing to mention is the smart address bar, that is, in the address bar (in the field where you enter the site address), you can also enter search queries - this is universal and convenient.

In order to download the Chrome browser on your computer, go to: "google.com/intl/en/chrome".

The next browser we would like to consider is Mozilla Firefox. The Mozilla Firefox browser has been around for about 10 years and is one of the old-timers among web browsers. Mozilla Firefox is mainly used by webmasters and advanced users due to its correct and correct display of site pages.

Of the functional features of Mazila (eng. Mozilla), it is worth highlighting the presence of a huge number of plugins (extensions), the number of which largely exceeds the range of extensions in Chrome. In addition, Mazila Firefox has the ability to change the visual style of the browser, which should also be attributed to the advantages.

Despite all this, Mozilla Firefox is quite a "heavy" browser. It, compared to other browsers, takes a little longer to start up, and sometimes freezes and slows down, even on a fairly powerful computer. If we compare Mozilla Firefox with the aforementioned Chrome, then the disadvantage of the first is the lack of synchronization of bookmarks and passwords. Therefore, if there is no special need to use Mazila, then it is better not to use it as the main browser.

You can download the Mozilla Firefox browser from the browser's official website: "mozilla-russia.org".

The Opera browser is an aksakal among browsers that has existed for almost 20 years. The Opera browser is quite light and convenient. Of the functional features, support for widgets and plugins can be distinguished, but they have not received wide application. It is worth noting the Turbo function, which allows you to load pages faster with a slow Internet connection or to save traffic by compressing it, but, as a rule, today this function is relevant for laptop owners with limited 3G Internet tariffs.

Analyzing the Opera browser, nothing bad can be said about it, but it is also difficult to single out something good. In our opinion, Opera lacks a certain charisma that would distinguish it from the above browsers such as Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.

You can download the Opera browser from its main page: "opera.com/ru".

And finally, it should be said about the fifth browser, which, in our opinion, deserves its place in our top five. Yandex.Browser is the last one on our list, but not the last one. Although Internet Explorer is the first mentioned, it is far from the leader, and perhaps even an outsider of our list of top browsers.

As for the Yandex browser, this is the youngest browser developed by Yandex. This browser has only existed for about a year, but despite its novelty, it is quickly gaining its audience. Probably Yandex(-y) wanted something more serious than obsessively integrating their Yandex.Bar (an add-on with their services) into other browsers, so the company's developers decided to create their own full-fledged browser. It is somewhat difficult to call Yandex.Browser “ours”, since it is the same Chrome, with a slightly redesigned design and with some additionally implemented functions. One of these additional features is the Turbo function, which was borrowed from the Opera browser. Let's analyze Yandex.Browser in more detail.

The Yandex browser is made on the same engine as Chrome, so they have a similar appearance and similar functionality. New versions of Yandex.Browser now offer the ability to synchronize your passwords and bookmarks with the Yandex server. The Yandex browser also allows you to install extensions, but they must be installed manually, since Yandex does not have its own store for downloading add-ons. It is worth noting that it is possible to set a background image, but, unfortunately, there is no possibility to change the background of the navigation bar in the browser. But there is a convenient "Scoreboard" - a panel with site icons for quickly opening them, which is very original and convenient. You can also note the possibility of searching for a query in different search engines from the "smart line" of this browser by selecting the desired search engine below.

Summing up, we can say with confidence that Yandex.Browser is the same Chrome, but more focused on Russian-speaking users living in the CIS. If you decide to remove Yandex.Browser, then .

To download a browser from Yandex, go to it official page: "browser.yandex.ru".

Which browser to choose?