The Browser War is Over: Netscape Declares Victory, But Will it Last?

The browser war has finally ended, with Netscape declaring victory. The company's Communicator browser is now free, and Microsoft's Internet Explorer is no longer the dominant force it once was. However, many people use the browser provided by their Internet Service Provider, and Microsoft's business tactics, including forcing PC manufacturers to install Explorer and using proprietary features, have hindered Netscape's growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Netscape's Communicator browser is now free, marking a significant shift in the browser market.
• Microsoft's Internet Explorer, once the dominant browser, has seen its market share decline.
• The majority of users do not choose their browser, instead relying on their Internet Service Provider's default offering.
• Netscape's market share is estimated to be approaching 50%, but this figure may not accurately reflect the current market situation.
• Microsoft's business tactics, including using proprietary features and forcing PC manufacturers to install Explorer, have hindered Netscape's growth.
• Netscape's free version of Communicator may boost market share, as users who had downloaded trial versions may now stick with the free version.
• The browser wars may not be over, with Netscape's popularity expected to increase soon.

Statistics:

• Netscape's Communicator browser is now free, available for download from Netscape mirror sites.
• Estimated market share of Netscape's Communicator browser is approaching 50%.
• Trial versions of Netscape's Communicator browser were downloaded from Netscape mirror sites, with many users sticking with the free version.

Sources:

• Netscape's home page, which declares victory in the browser war.
• Chris (Netscape freedom fighter), who can be contacted on 0121 244 8800 or email chris:@webxpress.co.uk.
• Webxpress.co.uk, where previous articles can be found.