Can I have more than one Internet browser installed?
Yes. In fact, it is something we recommend. Many Microsoft Windows users are under the impression that they may only use Edge, and Apple users, Safari. However, a browser is only a program. Like other programs, you can have as many on your computer as you want and run them at the same time. Below is a listing of the top alternative browsers you may want to consider trying.
Alternative browsers include:
Why should I run an alternative browser?
Often, an alternative browser may have something that is not available with the one you are currently using. Users trying a different browser often say how nice the new browser looks, how much faster it is, or how many more options or add-ons are available.
Additionally, some websites or web apps may not work properly in certain browsers. Switching browsers is an effective method for troubleshooting these issues. For example, if you are having problems with a website in Chrome, you can try opening it in Firefox to see if the issue goes away.
For anyone who designs websites, having more than one browser is a must because the page you are designing may appear different, or work in one browser but not another.
Is it safe to run multiple browsers at the same time?
Yes. All browsers act independently, allowing you to run multiple browsers at the same time.
The only issue you may experience is browsers "fighting" over which should be the default. For example, if Microsoft Edge is set as the default browser and you open Google Chrome, a message appears asking if you want to make Chrome the default browser. To stop these messages from appearing, find your browser below and follow the steps.
Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Opera
Chrome, Edge, and Opera display a message below the address bar asking if you want to set that browser as the default browser. To stop that message from displaying, click the X on the far-right side of that message.
Mozilla Firefox
Firefox displays a pop-up message asking if you want to make it the default browser. To disable that message, do the following:
- In the pop-up message window, uncheck the box next to Always perform this check when starting Firefox.
- Click the Not Now button to close the pop-up message window.
Internet Explorer
Internet Explorer displays a pop-up message asking if you want to make it the default browser. To disable that message, do the following:
- In the Internet Explorer browser window, click the gear icon in the upper-right corner.
- Select Internet options in the drop-down menu.
- Click the Programs tab in the Internet Options window.
- Uncheck the box for the Tell me if Internet Explorer is not the default browser option.
- Click Apply, and then click OK.