Internet Explorer 9 Review: An In-Depth Look at Microsoft's New Browser In 2011, when Microsoft launched Internet Explorer 9 (IE9), it was met with mixed reviews as it aimed to compete with the increasingly popular browsers such as Chrome and Firefox. Fast forward to 2024, and the landscape for web browsers has significantly evolved, making it essential to revisit and analyze the features and performance of IE9 from a modern perspective.
Overview of Internet Explorer 9
The video review begins with Mike and Joe from Windows7Forums.com discussing the state of Internet Explorer 9. They attempt to offer an impartial overview of the browser, highlighting its key improvements over previous versions, specifically in rendering speed and a streamlined user interface that resembles Chrome.
Key Features:
Improved Rendering Performance: The duo compares the rendering speeds of IE9 with both Chrome and Firefox through various tests, including the Acid3 test and Javascript performance evaluations. Ultimately, while IE9 shows a marked improvement over its predecessors, both Chrome and Firefox still edge it out in overall performance.
User Interface Changes: IE9 adopts a more minimalistic design aimed at decluttering the browsing experience. Although this change aligns closely with what Chrome had implemented, feedback indicates that this resemblance might not be enough to draw die-hard Chrome users away from their preferred browser.
HTML5 and CSS3 Support: The reviewers touch on IE9's support for HTML5 and CSS3 standards, suggesting that it can handle modern web applications better than its earlier counterparts. However, they also note that the other browsers might still offer a more robust experience in this area.
New Security Features: IE9 introduces smart filtering and tracking protection that are designed to enhance user security during browsing sessions. Yet, the reviewers express skepticism regarding the practical effectiveness of these features, especially regarding user implementation and potential false security perceptions.
Concerns and Limitations
While IE9 brought several enhancements, the review brings up several concerns that resonate even a decade later:
Complexity and User Experience: One of the core criticisms is the complexity of settings within IE9. Even tech-savvy users found navigating the numerous options overwhelming, leading to potential misconfigurations. This complexity stands in stark contrast to the more intuitive experiences offered by Chrome and Firefox.
Reliance on ActiveX: The reliance on ActiveX controls for certain functionalities, particularly in enterprise settings, remains a double-edged sword. While essential for legacy applications, its security vulnerabilities have plagued Internet Explorer's reputation over the years.
Market Share Decline: The review anticipates a continued decline in IE's market share as browsers like Chrome and Firefox gain favor owing to their speed, security features, and user-friendly designs.
Final Thoughts
In retrospect, the launch of Internet Explorer 9 was an important milestone for Microsoft as it sought to reclaim lost ground in the browser wars. Although it introduced several new features aimed at improving performance and user experience, it ultimately lagged behind its competitors like Chrome and Firefox, both in speed and usability. As we reflect on this review a decade later, it's clear that browsers have come a long way. Users today expect speed, security, and simplicity, leading to a stronger preference for browsers that offer these features seamlessly. For WindowsForum.com members, what has been your experience with IE9 or other Microsoft browsers? Have you noticed significant changes in your browsing habits over the years? Let’s discuss!