IE security problems open doors to friends and foes

Two software developers have opted to take very different approaches to the lack of security in Internet Explorer: one has decided to join Microsoft, the other to beat them. As security software developer Winferno launches an add-on that fills IE's security gaps, UK-based Deepnet Technologies has decided the time is right to release a rival to IE called Deepnet Explorer.

Winferno, a security software development firm from Boston, said its Secure IE 2004 Suite helps protects the user from spyware, unknown ActiveX scripts and key-logging software. Additionally, it also adds functionality such as tabbed browsing, a download manager and improved cookie management.

According to Winferno, the security suite provides a defence for Web browsing in much the same way that an antivirus software provides protection for email.

Internet Explorer owns around 95 percent of the browser market and is relied upon by the majority of computer users as their primary interface with the Web. But over the past few years the browser has been heavily criticised because of some high profile security flaws and Microsoft's apparent lack of interest in improving its features.

Last month was the first time IE has lost market share in many years, which could mean the market is opening up for new entrants and companies that can help secure IE's crumbling defences.

James Governor, principal analyst at Redmonk, said that because browser security is such a hot topic at the moment, it makes sense that companies may want to update their browser security without waiting for Microsoft.