For many of us, the Internet browsing software we employ allows us do simply that - access the various Internet sites we might find useful or interesting. We find ourselves using a particular browser almost by default, and think nothing of it, even when we encounter difficulties. But any regular Internet user needs to know that there are choices when it comes to selecting the right web browser for you, and that this choice should not be limited by aesthetics or speed alone - using the right Internet browser can also protect you while you surf.

Internet Explorer is the software of choice for eighty-five percent of web browsers. Though perhaps 'choice' is something of a misnomer, as many of these people are recreational surfers with little understanding, or, indeed, desire to understand, the workings of this type of software. With the simple urge to log on, look around and log off again, they stick with the only name they know, not realising that there are other options available.

The oft-used Internet Explorer has exhibited some safety glitches in the past that should cause some concern. While no web browsing software, while no software at all, is perfect, it makes sense to choose the brand that displays the greatest security history. Internet Explorer's nearest rival is Mozilla Firefox, and though security reports of this software initially make more optimistic reading, this is perhaps in part due to the relative anonymity of the company that owns it, in terms of the general web surfing public, and the lack of negative attention it therefore receives.

Many experts, however, prefer the less well known of these two, and those in the know are switching in their relative droves. The company itself refers to its software as 'a better web experience', and the product undoubtedly offers a range of superior services, including faster browsing, improved pop-up blocking, automatic updates and, perhaps most importantly of all, stronger security.

The Firefox browser can easily be downloaded if you would like to give it a try. With an eighty-five percent market share, Internet Explorer clearly has much to defend it, but there is little doubt that choice is a good thing. Exercise your power of choice and try out all the options before you select the web browsing software that is best for you.