Just got a cable modem - ready for Firefox - any advice?

I've been on dial-up for about 6 months now. I had AOL as my ISP and browser. This is the first time I've been online, and I have only used AOL's browser up to this point.

Today, I recieved my cable modem and now I am online at warp speed.

I remember several posts about the stability and security of Firefox over IE.

Because my situation was temporary (and the size of Firefox) - I have put off DLing it.

I thought my new service would come with it's own browser, but it doesn't.

I have to use IE. I am satisfied that Firefox is the way to go, but as I know very little about what to do - I need some advice.

My understanding is this:

1: DL firefox and install it.
2: Somehow change the default to open with Firefox not AOL (I know i've seen it, but I can't remember where).
3: Give it some time and then uninstall IE (or is this necessary - does it take up alot of space or cause any conflicts?).
4: Enjoy pop-up free browsing

Also, any tips or helpful hints on maximizing Firefox would be most appreciated.

Thanks ahead of time,

LAIGo

 

1. You got it right. Nothing i can really add.
2. This will happen by default or it will prompt you to make it a default browser.
3. No, you never delete IE, you'll still need it sometimes. Also it can't be uninstalled. At least not without messing up core system files.

 

Thanks abunch.

I'm heading off soon to DL it.

I'm just now discovering the little things I took for granted with AOL's browser (like pop-up blocking. IE blocks EVERYTHING including the little smilies at this forum).

Since, I'm not going to be using IE anymore - I won't worry about learnin IE.

Does anyone know of a place to find "Firefox for Dummies" type information, or is it pretty self explanitory?

Thanks Coco - love all the Trophies ,

LAIGo

 

Here's a tip:
The Firefox equivalent to IE's keystroke(ctrl-o) which quickly accesses the address bar for speedy URL access is (alt-d)!

Enjoy

 

Thanks - I'm logging off now to go and get it.

I'll check back later for any other tips.

Thanks again guys,

LAIGo

 

For the record, IE doesn't block the smilies in this forum. At least not by default. Also IE does have a popup blocker. The only flaw with the popup blocking in IE is that it's already been beaten. So it only stops some popups.