For many of us, we access the internet on a daily basis, whether it’s on a smartphone, tablet, work computer, or even a smart TV. It has become a convenience we just expect to work. We often overlook the software loaded on the devices we use to access the internet.
In order to access websites, we use browsers installed on our internet-connected devices. The browser interprets code accessed from a server and displays the corresponding web page in a familiar and easy to consume format. The most common internet browsers are:
All modern browsers are updated on a regular basis. This varies by company, but most are updated every one to two years. Browser updates are made for the following reasons:
- Improve speed and performance
- Support new standards and features
- Support new web technologies
- Upgrade display capabilities
- Patch security vulnerabilities
Why This Should Matter to You
So why should you care about having the latest browser version? The browser you are using can affect your overall web experience as well as the safety of your device and your personal information.
As device manufacturers release new browser versions, they stop supporting and fixing old browsers. You may wonder, “Why on earth would they stop supporting the browser I still have on my device?” This is done to improve the overall user experience.
As technology improves, companies often rebuild their browsers from the ground up. The old browsers simply don’t have the capabilities to support the new features and standards. Older versions might also utilize poor or outdated coding that is venerable to security hackers and cyber criminals.
So instead of forcing you to buy a new device, manufacturers provide free software updates to your existing devices. Most of the latest devices update certain software programs automatically. However, many of the older devices out there aren’t yet set up to make automatic updates. Although the company may have released an updated browser version, you may still be using an older version.
How To Update Your Browser
To take advantage of the latest features and tools utilized on our website and online banking, we recommend that you download and utilize the latest version of your preferred browser.
We have provided links below to the companies that develop the most common browsers. Simply click on a browser icon below and follow the instructions provided on that company's site.
Heartland Bank is a family-owned bank located in 13 different communities across the heart of Nebraska. Heartland Bank's vision is to improve the lives of customers, associates, and communities. Voted American Banker 2022 Best Banks to Work For. Learn more at MyHeartland.Bank.
