Microsoft launched the latest version of its popular Web browser Internet Explorer, Tuesday, which it says has ultra-fast speed and complete protection against harmful software.
Microsoft has finally released the final RTM build of Internet Explorer 9 (IE9). It is available as a free download in various languages both for 32-bit and 64-bit version of Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 but not for Windows XP.
According to Microsoft, Internet Explorer 9 (IE9) is 12 times faster than the previous version, and have enhanced performance in both capability and protection.
Microsoft said the new browser also has a simpler interface. It combined the address bar and search box into one box, and the whole frame is slimmer.
The new browser has tracking protection, which warns user if they are being trailed by a third-party while using the Web browser, and has ActiveX Filtering, which allows users to block ActiveX Controls for all sites excluding those that they trust.
Important changes from previous versions
♦ Security-enabled Download Manager: Manages file transfers and can pause and resume downloads and informs if a file may be malicious
♦ Add-on Performance Advisor: Shows which third party add-ons may be slowing down browser performance and then allows the option to disable or remove them
♦ Better JavaScript performance. Internet Explorer 9 (32-bit) features a faster JavaScript engine than IE8’s internally known as Chakra
♦ Full hardware acceleration for text, graphics, and video provided by default
♦ Tracking Protection: With Tracking Protection Lists, you can choose which third-party sites can receive your information and track you online.
Microsoft has provided a comparison chart between IE9 features and its competeter browsers. This can be seen here.
Direct Download Links for Standalone IE9:-
Download Windows 7 32-bit (English)
Download Windows 7 64-bit (English)
Suggested Readings:-
Internet Explorer 9 Features by Microsoft
Wikipedia article on Internet Explorer 9