14 DAY TRIAL // Internet Explorer continues to be one of the most used browsers worldwide, no matter what some people say and Microsoft obviously goes on with improvements in this regard.
In a post today, Fred Pullen, senior product marketing manager of Internet Explorer, explains that Internet Explorer excels in terms of security and recommends users to keep the app fully up-to-date in order to stay safe while browsing the web.
However, Pullen revealed that two-thirds of all desktop computers are still running older versions of Internet Explorer, which obviously makes them vulnerable to attacks, no matter the security software installed on their PCs.
“Two-thirds of all desktop computers are still using older, less secure browsers despite years of security advancements and updates. We are making continued investments not only in making a more secure browser, but also in helping consumers and commercial customers get—and stay—current,” he said.
Keeping Windows Update turned on is basically the easiest way to stay up to date with all Internet Explorer improvements, but in some cases, users can also manually download the new releases to their computers.
Microsoft says that stats confirm that Internet Explorer security has significantly improved as new versions were released, so the builds that are available right now are among the most secure on the market.
“Malicious download block rates increased from 69% on Internet Explorer 8 in 2009 to over 99% on Internet Explorer 11. This month’s security update makes Internet Explorer more secure against exploits, but it needs to be installed to keep your browser up-to-date. The most recent, fully-patched version of Internet Explorer is more secure than older versions,” the company noted.
Internet Explorer 11 is currently available for both Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 users, but Microsoft is already working on a brand new version that could come with plenty of changes in terms of looks.
According to recent information that reached the web, the Redmond-based software giant is preparing a “substantial” change as far as the Internet Explorer interface is concerned, but it's not yet clear whether this UI revamp is aimed at the desktop version of the browser or at the touch-optimized build developed to run in the Modern UI of Windows 8.
Microsoft is set to launch the new Internet Explorer in Windows 9, most likely in early 2015 when the new operating system is expected to hit the shelves, according to reports coming from people close to the matter.