The Firefox 3.5 browser can be configured to display a number of security warning messages regarding the encryption (or lack thereof) of Web pages that you visit as well as information that you submit via online forms. These warning dialogs vary in both severity and personal necessity, and the ability to specify which messages are displayed at what times can come in handy. Each of these security warnings can be toggled off and on in just a few easy steps...

Privacy and security are of the utmost importance when surfing the Web nowadays. Browser exploits have become commonplace, and it seems like every couple of days another vulnerability is discovered. Keeping your browser up to date with the latest patches is one way to ensure your safety. Another line of defense involves utilizing the multitude of free add-ons created with your protection in mind. Here are some of the best.

• NoScript
  
  "NoScript allows executable content such as JavaScript to run only if it is being hosted on a domain that you trust."
  
  
• FlashBlock
  
  "Flashblock takes a pessimistic approach to dealing with Macromedia Flash content on a webpage and blocks ALL Flash content from loading."
  
  
• Netcraft Toolbar
  
  "The Netcraft Toolbar helps protect you from phishing attacks by blocking access to suspicious URLs."
  

More privacy and security add-ons...

Perhaps the greatest browser innovation to hit the scene over the past several years is the tab. Although most of us probably take it for granted at this point, tabbed browsing has added a new level of convenience to our daily lives. Long gone are the days where multitasking meant having several browser windows open at the same time. Check out the Top 11 Tabbed Browsing Add-Ons and take your tabs to the next level!

What is your favorite tabbed browsing add-on?

(Photo © (Photo © Roi M.)

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we are grateful for a lot of things: family, friends, good fortune, and anything else in our lives that makes us smile. On this day of reflection and gratitude, let's not forget the browser and the way it not only powers but enriches our experiences on the Web.

Web browsers themselves are usually available as free downloads, letting us explore the great unknown at will. Browser add-ons, ranging from those which protect our online security to those which help us obtain our favorite music and movies, allow us to do things never before thought possible. Even some browser-based games can transport us to faraway fantasy realms. Whether it be for productivity or entertainment purposes, the Web browser truly offers us a lot on a daily basis. So say thank you, and have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

(Photo © Cameron - #6060801/stockxpert)

Since its beta release last September, Google's Chrome browser has developed a formidable user base. Revered by fans for its quick page load times and uncluttered interface, Chrome has begun to establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in what is becoming a somewhat crowded desktop browser market.

When choosing to adopt a new browser as your daily application of choice, one thing most Web surfers worry about is all of their saved stuff. Whether it be bookmarked URLs, saved passwords, or even browsing history, these are items that most people would like to bring along with them to their new browser. For longtime Firefox and Internet Explorer users making the leap to Chrome, this important data can be imported over in just a few easy minutes.

Former Firefox Users

Former Internet Explorer Users

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Anonymity when browsing the Web can be important for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you are concerned that your sensitive data may be left behind in temporary files such as cookies, or maybe you just do not want anyone to know where you have been.

No matter what your motive for privacy might be, IE8's InPrivate Browsing may be exactly what you are looking for. While utilizing InPrivate Browsing, cookies and other files are not saved on your hard drive. Even better, your entire browsing and search history is automatically wiped out. InPrivate Browsing can be activated in just a few easy steps.

(Photo © wmiami - #44330271/stockxpert)

All of you Macheads looking to get your hands on Google's Chrome browser may not have to wait much longer. According to Nick Baum, Chrome's project manager, a beta version should be released sometime in early December. About's Tom Nelson has more details on this exciting development.

Most browsers give you the ability to view Web pages in full screen mode, hiding all elements other than the main browser window itself. This includes stifling the display of tabs, toolbars, bookmarks, and status bars. Full screen mode can be toggled on and off very easily, and the following tutorials step you through the process in some of the top browsers in Windows.

Full Screen Mode in IE8

Full Screen Mode in Firefox 3.5

Full Screen Mode in Google Chrome

Full Screen Mode in Opera 10

(Photo © ginosphoto - #3406571/stockxpert)

About Web Browsers has readers from all walks of life, each utilizing their online time a little differently. One thing that a lot of you have in common, however, is your love of add-ons. These browser extensions offer thousands of new features which can expand our favorites such as Firefox and Internet Explorer into powerhouse applications. The best part is that most of them are free!

I'd like to know more about your add-on profile! Submit a little information about yourself and the browser add-ons that enrich your daily life and you could be featured right here on About.com in the near future.

By default, the Google Chrome browser will save certain information that you enter into website forms such as your name and address. This Form Autofill feature makes things easier the next time you are prompted to enter the same info in that form or in similar forms on other sites. Although it offers an element of convenience, there is also an obvious privacy issue here. If other people use your browser or you simply do not feel comfortable having your form information stored, the Form Autofill feature can be disabled in just a few easy steps.

(Photo © Scott Orgera)