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Thread ID: 61529	2005-09-08 00:35:00	Which browser for a newbie	Tony (4941)	Press F1

Post ID	Timestamp	Content	User
386748	2005-09-08 00:35:00	I'm setting up a new PC for my friend. I use Firefox on my own PC, but I am wondering whether this would be in fact the best option for my friend, who as I have said before, is seriously technologically challenged. My reasoning is that despite the issues with Explorer that we all know about: - There are some apps/websites that only work with IE. - Having only one browser reduces complexity. - She is very unlikely to be trolling around sites that would be obvious suspects for malware. - We will have Spybot and MS AntiSpyware installed and active. - As long as we keep the security updates applied, there shouldn't be a problem. I really don't want this thread to develop into a general anti MS/anti IE rant. I understand all those issues. I am just suggesting that under these circumstances and conditions, for this user, IE might be good enough. Opinions?	Tony (4941)
386749	2005-09-08 00:44:00	Yes...IE might be a good idea. Generally I install Firefox on every comp I service,and explain to the user why it would be a good idea to use it, but if their computer comprehension is low (real low) and they can't understand the concept of a browser (browser?...isn't it the internet?) and I get the idea that asking them to switch browsers to use different sites is too much for them.....then we just go on as before clean it,patch it,lock it down and let them run wild with IE.... If they insist on infecting their machine then its time for plan C, Firefox is made default and they live with non-standard sites not displaying as they do in IE, They generally find this easier then repeatedly reaching for the wallet for my services.....	Metla (12)
386750	2005-09-08 00:45:00	I would still insist on firefox as default and just leave IE in the background for whatever needs it. There is also a handy extension called IE View which will load the page up in IE if you need to view it in internet explorer :thumbs:	Overdrive_5000 (4950)
386751	2005-09-08 01:06:00	the catch 22 is most newbies only know how to use IE and there friends only know how to use IE so in that way IE is best. however newbies often get into trouble quick and don't use the tools thats on the pc (anti spyware and antivirus etc) so useing a better browser is normally a better (and cheaper) way to go. this also has the nice bonus of the person being forced to learn and even if they revert back to IE they will understand pc's better. BTW opera is far far better ;)	tweak'e (69)
386752	2005-09-08 01:27:00	IE sucks for ANYONE. I would recommend Opera, as its stable and complete, firefox is always changing and so might not suit a newbie. If I was a newbie I would consider tabs to be the most important thing, so I could open multiple sites, they are Opera and Firefox specialities. Mind you I would also like Adblock in firefox as well. I would also set up zonealarm to run and a free virus scanner like Clam??? (I forget the name)	netchicken (4843)
386753	2005-09-08 01:31:00	IE sucks for ANYONE.That was the sort of "constructive" criticism I was hoping to avoid. I would also set up zonealarm to run and a free virus scanner like Clam??? (I forget the name)I should have said we will also have AVG going.	Tony (4941)
386754	2005-09-08 01:36:00	Firefox and set it to the default, remove all shortcuts to IE. If the newbie can turn the computer on I'm sure they will be able to figure out Firefox. Firefox renders most pages correctly, the only issues I have are when you need to run an app in the browser then it's about 50/50 weather or not Firefox will work for that page, but as mentioned you could get the IE View extention.	Coaster (270)
386755	2005-09-08 01:38:00	I think for a newbie Firefox is pretty easy, uncluttered and easy cleanup . I agree with the idea of keeping IE in case something doesn't work . You don't have to be an "irresponsable" user for IE to start collecting trash . Friends of mine have been on the net for two weeks with a machine out of the box with XP SP2 home IE and they've already got lots of sites popping up . Can't do any harm for her to know there's ore than one way to access the net .	mark c (247)
386756	2005-09-08 01:52:00	Can't do any harm for her to know there's ore than one way to access the net. thats about the guts of it. as long as they know that IE is not the only browser then its up to them what they use and accept the problems that come with it.	tweak'e (69)
386757	2005-09-08 04:50:00	Mozilla. Firefox. Not a huge difference and they'll get used to it. I wouldn't inflict IE on anyone who asked for a choice.	pctek (84)
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