Though there are many different browser available. The two main ones have been Microsoft's Internet Explorer and AOL's Netscape Navigator but neither of these have been updated recently. Both browsers are based on the first web browser; Mosaic. Though the majority of visitors use a modern graphic based browsers, a designer should be aware that a number of visitors are using text based audio browsers which read the website to the user.
A new generation of browsers have become available over the last few years. The one that most people are switching to is Mozilla's Firefox. The browser can be downloaded for free from mozilla.org. This browser installs the basic tools that are required to browse the internet but it can be expanded using Extensions to build your own customized browser with the tools that you prefer.
The companies that develop Internet browsers often place support for non-standard tags in anticipation of the changing nature of the Internet. This can cause the various browsers to display the same page differently. The way that the various companies implement the HTML tags and styles in their program can also be different, causing a confusing situation for the web developer.
As more people begin using handheld devices to browse the internet it is a good idea to develop your site to be compatible with these types of browsers as well.
Many web design tools use shortcuts and none standard HTML based on the browser that they are targeting. As you are building your site keep checking it to make sure that it conforms as closely as possible to the W3C guidelines. There a number of resources available on the Internet and through software applications to check your HTML for browser compatibility (check w3.org). Also be aware that each browser has various versions and though it is not always possible, make every attempt to support the older browser versions.
The best rule it to stick to standard HTML or provide a separate page for older browsers. This is especially true when using frames or complex programming. One should also note that browsers designed for the visually impaired use standard HTML tags to read the information to the users.
Test your website in more than one browser and if possible a text browser as well. It is more difficult to maintain various versions of a browser but it can be quite useful and eye opening.
Updated December 1, 2007
