Used Netscape X for Mac? Share your experience and help other users.
Key Details of Netscape X
- Old Netscape browser for Mac
- Last updated on
- There have been 5 updates
- Virus scan status:
Clean (it’s extremely likely that this software program is clean)
Editors’ Review
Those Mac users who don't like using Safari may want an alternative. Netscape X for Mac is a solid option that performs well with all of the features expected of a good Web browser. The problem isn't with the program or how it works, it's actually a message from the publisher.
Netscape Navigator was one of the first web browsers that made the internet easy to use. It was created by Netscape Communications Corp and played a big role in making the internet popular in the early 1990s. It was easy to use and had many features that are common in browsers today. Even though it was eventually overtaken by other browsers like Internet Explorer and Firefox, many people still remember Netscape Navigator for its early contributions to the web. The last version was released in 2007, and since then, there have been no new updates. However, its impact on web browsing is still notable.
Netscape Navigator matches Firefox in terms of performance, with similar speed and memory usage, which ensures a smooth browsing experience. It also includes strong security features, such as a master password and SSL and TLS encryption to keep users' data safe.
Netscape Navigator offers some unique features that Firefox does not. For example, the Link Pad feature appears on the sidebar. This allows users to drag and drop links they want to save. This is especially useful for links that users want to remember but do not wish to bookmark, helping to keep their bookmarks uncluttered. Another distinct feature is the Mini Browser, also found in the sidebar. This tool displays websites in simple text, which is intended for quick browsing of content. However, it can make the screen look busy, especially when multiple tabs are an option.
The browser is available fully functional for free. Netscape X for Mac downloaded quickly, but acceptance of a lengthy user agreement was required to use the application. Once the program starts, it gives the user the option to import all presets and bookmarks from their primary browsers, whether it is Safari, Explorer, or Firefox, which is a very useful option. The default home page can also be set from the prior browser. Once the program started, the browser windows and controls are similar to those of other major programs. The control buttons were well designed and performed well. The Web pages selected for testing rendered well without any errors. Unfortunately, the program alerts the user after a short time that support stopped for it in 2008 and recommends users upgrade to Firefox or Flock browsers. Links are even provided to the Web pages for each. The lack of technical support is a major deficiency in an era of increasing security and changing format standards.
Bottom Line
While functional and well designed, Netscape X for Mac's lack of support into the future means it is not the best option when it comes to browsing alternatives.
What’s new in version 9.0.0.6
- Security fixes included in Mozilla Firefox 2.0.0.12 have been included in Netscape Navigator 9.0.0.6.
- An add-on has been included in this version to help users migrate to either Flock or Firefox
- The WeatherBug add-on has been removed from this version of Navigator.
Used Netscape X for Mac? Share your experience and help other users.
