With downloads of Mozilla’s new Firefox 4 browser now approaching 40 million downloads since it was released last Tuesday, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise to see it now jump into a global usage share of around 5 percent, leaving Microsoft’s new IE9 down in a pitiful 1.5 percent share.
Even though the release of Microsoft’s IE9 launch was backed by the biggest advertising campaigns the company has ever seen in recent history, you can already see the huge surge of Firefox 4 from its launch day release.
Firefox 4’s Impressive Features
One of the key reasons behind the rapid adoption of Firefox 4 is its impressive array of features and improvements over previous versions. Firefox 4 boasts a significantly faster browsing experience, thanks to its new JägerMonkey JavaScript engine. This engine enhances the browser’s performance, making it one of the fastest on the market. Additionally, Firefox 4 introduces a sleek, streamlined interface that provides users with a more intuitive and enjoyable browsing experience.
Another notable feature is the inclusion of hardware acceleration, which leverages the power of your computer’s graphics card to render web pages more quickly and smoothly. This is particularly beneficial for users who frequently engage in multimedia-rich activities, such as streaming videos or playing online games.
Enhanced Security and Privacy
Security and privacy have always been paramount for Mozilla, and Firefox 4 continues this tradition with several enhancements. The browser includes a new “Do Not Track” feature, which allows users to opt-out of tracking by websites and advertisers. This feature is crucial in an age where online privacy concerns are increasingly prevalent.
Moreover, Firefox 4 has improved its handling of add-ons and extensions, ensuring that they do not compromise the browser’s performance or security. The browser also includes a revamped version of its private browsing mode, which ensures that no browsing history or cookies are stored during a private session.
Community and Customization
One of the standout aspects of Firefox 4 is its strong community support and the ability to customize the browser to suit individual preferences. Mozilla has always encouraged user feedback and contributions, and this collaborative approach has resulted in a browser that truly caters to its users’ needs. Firefox 4 offers a vast library of add-ons and themes, allowing users to personalize their browsing experience fully.
For developers, Firefox 4 provides robust tools and support, making it easier to create and test web applications. The browser’s adherence to web standards ensures that developers can build websites and applications that work seamlessly across different platforms and devices.
Comparing Firefox 4 and IE9
When comparing Firefox 4 to Microsoft’s IE9, several differences become apparent. While IE9 also offers hardware acceleration and a streamlined interface, it falls short in terms of customization and community support. Firefox 4’s extensive library of add-ons and themes gives it a significant edge over IE9, which has a more limited selection.
Furthermore, Firefox 4’s commitment to user privacy and security is more pronounced than that of IE9. The “Do Not Track” feature and improved private browsing mode are clear examples of Mozilla’s dedication to protecting its users’ online activities.
If you haven’t already downloaded the new Firefox 4 browser, you can download it from the Mozilla website. Enjoy!
You can also watch the total rise and see a few interesting stats regarding the download figures on the Mozilla glow site Firefox 4 download total.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
