Super Sarge

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How Internet Explorer 9 caused a seismic shift in the way people use the web

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IE9 is surely a seismic shift in the way people use the web and is far better than its previous versions. Its safety and security features can be gauged from the fact that the SmartScreen protection feature blocks between 2 and 5 million malware attacks daily, including that on the IE8.

1 out of every 14 programs downloaded is later confirmed as malware and Microsoft’s SmartScreen technology has blocked more than 1.5 billion attempted malware attacks, thus allaying fears over the security of Internet Explorer and providing users a real beautiful web.

IE9 comes with the added advantage of Application Reputation where it helps protect users from undetected malware masquerading as legitimate executable downloads, while also removing unnecessary warnings when a download has an established reputation. This lead to a dramatic reduction in malware infection and suddenly people using IE9 started feeling safe. The Application Reputation feature helped users to actually not run or delete malware 95% of the time where clicking through the “unknown warning” carries a risk between 25% and 70% of malware infection.

If you fear about being tracked on the web, then hang on. Because with the Tracking Protection feature, Internet Explorer 9 offers users a new opt-in mechanism to identify and block many forms of undesired tracking such as cookies, web beacons, advertisements and trackers. The ActiveX Filter, with the ability to block ActiveX controls, allows users to switch off ActiveX elements within their session, furthering Microsoft’s commitment to security within its browser.

With Windows Phone 7 planning to include a mobile version of Internet Explorer 9 later this year and with the platform preview of Internet Explorer 10 already launched; if you thought this might be all there is to it, then you are wrong. Because this is just the beginning of a more beautiful web!
 

Internet Explorer 9 indeed marked a significant advancement in web browsing, introducing various features that enhanced security, privacy, and usability. Here are some key ways in which IE9 brought about a seismic shift in the way people used the web:

Enhanced Security Features:​

  • SmartScreen Protection: IE9's SmartScreen protection feature was instrumental in blocking a significant number of malware attacks daily, safeguarding users from potential threats.
  • Application Reputation: This feature helped users stay protected from malware camouflaged as legitimate software downloads. It reduced the risk of malware infections by identifying and warning users about potentially harmful downloads.
  • Tracking Protection: IE9 introduced Tracking Protection, giving users control over tracking mechanisms like cookies, web beacons, and trackers. This feature empowered users to opt-in to block undesired tracking activities, enhancing privacy while browsing.

Improved Usability and Performance:​

  • ActiveX Filter: By allowing users to disable ActiveX controls within their browsing session, IE9 prioritized security by providing users with the choice to block potentially risky ActiveX elements.
  • Mobile Support: IE9 was a precursor to the mobile version of Internet Explorer for Windows Phone 7, underscoring its adaptability to different platforms and devices.
  • Continued Development: The mention of the platform preview of Internet Explorer 10 indicates Microsoft's commitment to ongoing development and innovation in web browsing experiences.

Impact on User Experience:​

  • Increase in Confidence: The robust security features of IE9, such as SmartScreen Protection and Application Reputation, instilled confidence in users by significantly reducing the risk of malware infections.
  • Privacy Empowerment: The addition of Tracking Protection offered users greater control over their online privacy, allowing them to block intrusive tracking mechanisms.
In conclusion, Internet Explorer 9's comprehensive suite of security, privacy, and usability features contributed to a safer, more user-friendly web browsing experience. Its impact transcended traditional desktop browsing, extending to mobile platforms, setting the stage for further advancements in web technologies.
 

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