Internet Explorer 8 is ready for download, should you?

Microsoft has released its long-awaited Web browser version, Internet Explorer 8, but should you download the software?

This is a summary of Internet Explorer 8 enhancements as mentioned by Microsoft.

• Accelerators:  Let's you map directions, translate words, and more.

• InPrivate Browsing: Gift shop online and keep it a surprise.

• Web Slices: Keep up on changes to a Web site.

• Enhanced Navigation: Internet Explorer 8 checks for compatibility and allows browsing in Explorer 7 mode. Additional enhancements are made to standard browser functions such as tabbled browsing and "Find."

• Increased Performance: According to Microsoft, "Internet Explorer 8 includes many performance improvements that contribute to a faster, more responsive web browsing experience in the areas that matter most. Internet Explorer 8 starts quickly, loads pages fast and instantly gets you started on what you want to do next with a powerful new tab page."

• Improved Favorites and History Management: One click favorites, RSS feed management, history sorting and searching.

• Search enhancement: Internet Explorer 8 offers detailed suggestions from your favorite search providers and browsing history and provides visual previews.

Screenshot by Microsoft.com

Yet, with all these tempting features, it is a risk to download Internet Explorer 8 until it is thoroughly tested by the public. If you can't wait for the verdict from the pros and your peers, visit the Micrsoft website to download Internet Explorer 8. Otherwise, play it safe and wait a few weeks as you keep abreast of Internet Explorer 8 reviews and bug reports, for best results.

Internet Explorer 8 Reviews -- Pros and Cons

Stay tuned for updates and links to premiere reviews. Post your experience here for other readers.

Installation Woe

"Word to the wise: Installing IE 8 on Windows XP is a huge test of patience...Expect the full installation to take as long as 30 painful minutes." (wired.com)

Internet Explorer 8 not so fast, versus Firefox

"According to early reviews, IE8 blows IE7 speeds out of the water; however, most reviewers haven't seen a noticeable difference between IE8 and Firefox, Internet Explorer's closest competitor." (PC World)

Microsoft's IE 8 incompatibility list: 2,400 major sites (and counting)  (ZD.net)