Internet Explorer 7 — Ready for Prime Time?

Microsoft released Internet Explorer 7 on October 18, 2006, raising hopes for a more secure web browsing experience and, in the short term at least, raising a host of compatibility concerns. Many software providers whose offerings interact with IE hurried to make adjustments for full compatibility with the final release. Months later, many Windows users are still opting to wait before updating their Internet Explorer install to version 7.

Automatic Update

One aspect of IE7's launch that has sparked controversy is Microsoft's decision to push the update out through its Automatic Updates. Those who have Automatic Updates enabled may have installed the update inadvertently, not realizing that it was included in the updates. Some have avoided this by selecting Custom Install, which lets you install only the updates you want. An Uninstall option is available.

Are You Ready for the Update?

The system requirements for IE7 are not extreme. You should have a processor speed of at least 233 MHz, random access memory of at least 128 Mb, and Windows XP with current patches and updates. If you are using an older system that does not meet these minimums, then you should continue using an older version of IE. Please see the IE7 section on Microsoft's website for more details.

Some web-based or browser-based software products are not yet fully compatible with IE7, though. The provider of Leapfrog's Virtual Office solution is still working to deliver full compatibility. The thin-client function works fine with IE7, but the SSL tunnel does not. Full compatibility between Virtual Office and IE7 is expected by June.

The support section of Quickbooks' website states that some of their products are not compatible with IE7 and offers guidance on how to address the problems. To avoid any surprises, check with your systems administrator or service provider before installing the update. Leapfrog clients should contact the Leapfrog Support Center at (404) 870-2124 before installing the update if you have concerns.

Why Update to Internet Explorer 7?

The new version of IE includes ease-of-use enhancements such as tabbed browsing, but security is the most significant improvement. Some of the concerns that drove many to use other browsers have been addressed. Active X controls are disabled by default, but if you visit a website that needs them enabled to function fully, you are prompted and have the option to choose to enable them.

The Microsoft Phishing Filter helps avoid malicious web sites by checking sites that you visit against a list of known phishing sites and a list of common characteristics. Those who prefer to check only certain sites can do so by disabling automatic checking through the Advanced Settings tab in Internet Options. Sites that have obtained high assurance certificates are identified by color coding - the address bar changes to green.

Other improvements in IE7 are described on Microsoft's website. Additional features will be brought into play for those who use Vista, the next generation of Microsoft Windows to be released in the next few weeks.

Although the ehnancements in IE7 have received generally positive comments, many people have become quite content to use other Web browsers. Some prefer to use two or more different browsers, finding one better suited to certain types of applications than others. The next contender for market share and accolades will be the new version of Mozilla Corp.'s Firefox. Only one prediction is safe: the saga of Browser Wars will continue to be hotly debated.

Questions about browsers? Give Leapfrog a call at (404) 870.2122

This article originally appeared in the January, 2007 issue of FrogTalk.

Microsoft and Internet Explorer are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.