Internet Explorer 11 vs. Safari 8

Attribute	Internet Explorer 11	Safari 8
Developer	Microsoft	Apple
Initial Release	October 17, 2013	October 16, 2014
Latest Version	11.0.9600.19541	8.0.8
Operating System	Windows	Mac OS X
Rendering Engine	Trident	WebKit
JavaScript Engine	Chakra	Nitro
CSS Support	Partial	Partial
HTML5 Support	Partial	Partial
Extensions	No	Yes
Default Browser	Yes (Windows)	Yes (Mac)

Introduction

Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 are two popular web browsers used by millions of people worldwide. While both browsers serve the same purpose of accessing and navigating the internet, they have distinct features and attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.

User Interface

When it comes to the user interface, both Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 offer clean and intuitive designs. Internet Explorer 11 follows the traditional menu bar layout, making it easy for users who are accustomed to older versions of Internet Explorer. On the other hand, Safari 8 adopts a minimalist approach with a sleek and modern design, providing a clutter-free browsing experience. Both browsers have a tabbed browsing feature, allowing users to open multiple websites simultaneously.

Internet Explorer 11 provides a customizable toolbar, enabling users to add or remove buttons according to their preferences. It also offers a Favorites bar, where users can save frequently visited websites for quick access. Safari 8, on the other hand, focuses on simplicity and offers a unified search and address bar, reducing clutter and making it easier to navigate the web.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to performance and speed, both Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 have made significant improvements over their predecessors. Internet Explorer 11 boasts improved JavaScript performance, making web pages load faster and providing a smoother browsing experience. It also includes hardware acceleration, utilizing the power of the computer's graphics card to enhance performance.

Safari 8, on the other hand, is known for its exceptional speed and efficiency. It utilizes advanced caching techniques and optimized rendering engines to deliver fast page load times. Safari 8 also includes a feature called "Nitro JavaScript Engine," which further enhances its performance by executing JavaScript code more efficiently.

While both browsers offer impressive performance, Safari 8 is often considered to be slightly faster and more responsive, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize speed and efficiency.

Security and Privacy

Security and privacy are crucial aspects of any web browser. Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 both prioritize user safety and offer various security features. Internet Explorer 11 includes a built-in SmartScreen Filter, which helps protect users from malicious websites and phishing attempts. It also offers Enhanced Protected Mode, a security feature that isolates the browser from the operating system, preventing potential attacks.

Safari 8, on the other hand, focuses on privacy and offers robust security measures. It includes a feature called "Privacy Report," which provides users with detailed information about the trackers on websites they visit. Safari 8 also blocks third-party cookies by default, enhancing user privacy and reducing the risk of targeted advertising.

While both browsers excel in security and privacy, Safari 8's emphasis on privacy and its proactive approach to blocking trackers make it a preferred choice for users who prioritize their online privacy.

Compatibility and Cross-Platform Support

Compatibility and cross-platform support are essential factors to consider when choosing a web browser. Internet Explorer 11 is primarily designed for Windows operating systems and offers excellent compatibility with websites and web applications built specifically for Internet Explorer. However, it may face compatibility issues with certain modern web technologies and may not be available on non-Windows platforms.

Safari 8, on the other hand, is the default browser for Apple devices, including Mac computers, iPhones, and iPads. It offers seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem and provides excellent compatibility with websites and web applications optimized for Safari. However, Safari 8 is not available for Windows or other non-Apple platforms, limiting its cross-platform support.

Ultimately, the choice between Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 in terms of compatibility and cross-platform support depends on the user's operating system and device preferences.

Additional Features

Both Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 offer additional features that enhance the browsing experience. Internet Explorer 11 includes a Reading View feature, which removes distractions from web pages, making it easier to read articles and long-form content. It also offers integration with Microsoft's Cortana virtual assistant, allowing users to perform voice searches and get personalized recommendations.

Safari 8, on the other hand, offers a unique feature called "Shared Links," which allows users to discover and access web content shared by people they follow on social media platforms. Safari 8 also includes a built-in Reading List feature, enabling users to save articles and web pages for offline reading.

While both browsers offer useful additional features, the choice between Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 depends on the user's specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 are both capable web browsers with their own strengths and weaknesses. Internet Explorer 11 offers a familiar user interface, improved performance, and robust security features. On the other hand, Safari 8 provides a sleek design, exceptional speed, and a strong focus on privacy. The choice between the two browsers ultimately depends on the user's operating system, device preferences, and specific requirements. Regardless of the choice, both Internet Explorer 11 and Safari 8 provide reliable and feature-rich browsing experiences.