On Monday 24th April Microsoft released Beta 2 of Internet Explorer 7 (Windows XP Service Pack 2 only) for public download. This updated release follows on from the Beta 1 version that has been available form the Microsoft website for some months now.

Microsoft are not publicly talking about a release date yet, however Microsoft has indicated that it should ship final code in the second half of 2006.

So why the release of Beta 2 for public download?

Basically Microsoft are very keen for the online community, especially the more technical users, to try the browser and report back any negative experiences. �This build is really solid and we think it is ready for technology enthusiasts,� says Margaret Cobb, a product manager for IE 7.

The Beta 1 of Internet Explorer for Windows XP Service Pack 2 has been available since last summer. Microsoft then shipped an IE7 Beta 2 �preview� in January 2006 and a �feature complete� version to some testers in March 2006.

Beta 2 also includes a version that will run on 64-bit editions of XP and Windows Server 2003.

To encourage users to try the latest Internet Explorer Beta, Microsoft is offering unlimited free phone support for users in the US, Germany and Japan. Microsoft have also created a new Web site dedicated to making hundreds of free Internet Explorer add-ons available at www.ieaddons.com

Internet Explorer 7 has:

# A redesigned user interface
# Tabbed browsing
# Enhanced search capabilities
# Support for Really Simple Syndication (RSS) data feeds
# Many new security features

If you are interested in trying out the new Beta 2 release of Internet Explorer 7 for Windows XP Service Pack 2 then visit: www.microsoft.com/ie

The End Of Internet Explorer?

Even as a Microsoft MVP I have had to admit that Internet Explorer 6 has needed as major upgrade in terms of its functionality and security - although XP Service pack 2 was a welcome start!

So it comes as no surprise to see that the rival internet browser - FireFox is becoming ever more popular with around 10% market share.

...but that is about to change with Internet Explorer 7

And so it is with much amusement that I recently came across the website http://www.explorerdestroyer.com/open_letter.php that wants to wipe out the use of Internet Explorer!

What they do NOT tell you is that FireFox ALSO has security flaws that are found on a regular basis. Also they omit to tell you that FireFox has NO accountability whatsoever....

If you use it and find a problem where do you go? Why does it take longer for them to "fix" their security flaws that it does for Microsoft to fix theirs?

In common with all "Open Source" software their is NO indemnity if you are using it and someone tries to sue you.... At least if you use a Microsoft product they WILL indemnify you against a lawsuit

...well enough of my ranting - Internet Explorer 7 is coming and the browser landscape will change. More great features and more security with global support. FireFox will have some catching up to do!

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Marc Liron - Bio
Microsoft Digital Media MVP
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This page was last updated 25th April 2005

Internet Explorer Beta

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