1. Table of contents

What is a browser?

A browser is a piece of software on your computer that allows you to access the internet.

Why should I upgrade?

When you're online looking at websites, your browser is the piece of software that lets you do this. It is also the piece of software that keeps you safe. If your browser is out of date, you may be less secure, and vulnerable to malware.

Upgrading to a modern browser means you will:

  • be safer
  • have a faster browsing experience
  • see more features on many of the most popular websites

In addition, many modern browsers will let you know if a site you're using is insecure or otherwise unsafe.

How do I upgrade my browser?

Upgrading is simple: you will need to download a newer browser and install it on your computer.

Here is a list of browsers that will keep themselves up to date, each with a website that will explain what its features are and how to install it. You may currently be using an older, out-of-date version of one of the browsers listed. You should pick one that works for your computer's operating system (i.e. Microsoft Windows or Mac) and that has the features you like best. If you're not sure, pick any one and try it out for a while - you can always change to a different browser later, and they're all free.

For any computer (Windows, Mac):

Also available for Mac:

If you're on an older version of Windows (such as XP or Vista), you should upgrade to Chrome, Firefox or Opera, as new versions of Internet Explorer are no longer available for your system.

I'm on a shared or public computer - how do I upgrade?

If you are on a shared computer at home, speak to whoever is responsible for it about upgrading to a better browser. If that's you, let everyone who uses the computer know that you've installed a new piece of software for them to use.

If you're on a public machine, including one at a school or library, speak to a member of staff to request that they upgrade their software.