Microsoft Internet Explorer is, although the competition is closing int, still the most used web browser in the world. In December 2007 Internet Explorer was responsible for 76% of all the browsing in the world. Internet Explorer 8 is only compatible with Windows XP and Vista, and comes already installed when you get Vista. If you have a older version of Windows installed, you'll need to get an older version like Internet Explorer 6. In version 8 Microsoft has added several new functions. Amongst other things, you now have the socalled "InPrivate"-function. This is what has humorously have been called "Porno-mode", where no information regarding the web sites you visit will be stored on your computer. This is supposed to be used in situation like for instance if you are using a computer in a internet-café and you are visiting your internet bank. Microsoft have also, as always, tried to make surfing more safe. They have now added a function called the SmartScreen-filter, that dynamically checks the web pages you are visiting and the files you are downloading, against a list of known "phishing-sites" and malware.
Internet Explorer is now even more helpful when you are typing in a web-address, and will try to help you complete the address. The web pages are supposed to load quicker, and in case of a crash, you have the possibility to resume your browsing the next time you start the browser, in the same way that you can in Opera, where all your web pages are loaded again in the same state as before the crash.
Internet explorer has often been accused of being less safe than many of its competitors, something that most likely is connected to the fact that so many use it. Most viruses and malware are designed to attack your operating system through Internet Explorer's "safety holes", since this will affect more people that attacking it through a lesser common browser.