Netscape, an AOL company, has released its latest browser. Netscape 8.1 adds features designed to better protect Web surfers against online scams such as spyware and phishing.

Version 8.1 of the Firefox-based Netscape Browser was made available Wednesday, bolstering the software’s spyware protection and adding a built-in RSS reader that displays news feeds directly in the browser. Netscape touts improved speed and security, while offering the ability to use Internet Explorer’s engine for compatibility.

The spyware protection in Netscape 8.1 automatically scans all downloads and blocks potential malware. A new security centre has also been added to highlight the browser’s safety features. AOL has additionally enabled support for multiple profiles in version 8.1, which will allow different family members or users to have separate settings, passwords and bookmarks.

The updated browser will also let you run complete memory and disk scans. Other security features include an updated blacklist of potential phishing sites. Netscape's move to increase security features comes as malicious attackers are increasingly targeting browser flaws, including vulnerabilities found last spring in Netscape’s browser.

The bad news is that it’s still Windows-only and it’s still as U.S.-centric (if not more) than 8.0. The free browser can be downloaded here. If you don’t fancy downloading the software, or you want an instruction book, you can purchase it for $14.95 from here.

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BIOS, Jan 30, 06 | Print | Send | Comments (0) | Posted In Internet