Firefox is a cross-platform open-source web browser that competes directly with Microsoft Internet Explorer. As such, one should expect both to provide similar features and capabilities. There some persistent differences.

• length of time between published exploits and available updates. Firefox response is generally sooner.
• web page developers who design for only one browser generally choose Internet Explorer. Firefox market share (14%) makes that less feasible.
• IE is written to Microsoft internal specifications.Firefox is written to International standards.
• Firefox source code is available to developers (and hackers) which facilitates the development of plug-ins and extensions.
• Microsoft by design limits the range of software and hardware platforms on which it will run (Windows XP SP2 and Vista). Firefox attempts to support a wider platform range.
• Internet Explorer is written to meet Intellectual Property interests through the Trusted Computing Platform and Digital Rights Management. Firefox is open to extensions and hacking which subvert those attempts.

Probably the biggest advantage of Firefox is the huge community support network that exists. That includes us.