Internet Explorer will update automatically

REDMOND SOFTWARE FLOGGER Microsoft has promised that users of its Internet Explorer (IE) web browser will be treated to behind the scenes updates and upgrades as a reward.

"Everyone benefits from an up-to-date browser," said Ryan Gavin, general manager of Internet Explorer business and marketing.

"We are sharing our plan to automatically upgrade Windows customers to the latest version of Internet Explorer available for their PC. This is an important step in helping to move the Web forward."

The feature will be turned on for users in Australia and Brazil, if they have automatic updating turned on, and Gavin added that the rollout will be slow and measured.

The good news is that this is a security feature, and the firm suggests that IE will operate like a self-repairing pair of trousers.

"The Web overall is better - and safer - when more people run the most up-to-date browser. Our goal is to make sure that Windows customers have the most up-to-date and safest browsing experience possible, with the best protections against malicious software such as malware," added Gavin.

"For consumers, the safety benefits are one of the key reasons that the industry has been moving towards automatic updates as the norm. We want to make updating to the best protection possible as fast and simple as we can for Windows customers."

You can opt out if you like, but the message is that the more up to date you are the more secure you remain. µ