Comodo Dragon 18.0

Overview

Comodo Dragon is a free, feature-rich, secure, Chromium-based web browser from Comodo (maker of several renowned Internet security software) that combines all the functionality of Chrome with integrated virus protection features. This program is a favorite amongst Comodo users because it is said to be faster, more stable, safer, and more compact than similar browsers.

Installation

Installing Comodo Dragon is as easy as installing any other browser, with a step-by-step wizard installation process that a child could complete. With a file size of only about 24 MB the only system requirement to worry about is your operating system, which must be either Windows XP, Vista, or Seven.

Interface

The user interface of Comodo Dragon isn't much different aesthetically than Chrome's. The only thing that sets this browser apart from Chrome are its built-in security/privacy features. If you've used Google Chrome before you'll find Dragon to be extremely familiar, yet far less prone to malicious attacks.

Pros

• Developed by Commodo, maker of one of the most renowned firewall programs available

• Incognito mode gives you supreme privacy by stopping cookies from being stored during browsing sessions

• Utilizes less memory than conventional browsers

• Uses Chrome's proprietary downloading technology to facilitate fast page load times

• Has all of Chrome's features, yet is smaller, faster, and more secure

• Proactively prevents browser hijackers and other security risks that could compromise the confidentiality of your browsing sessions

• Integrated domain validation checks the quality of SSL certificates

• Judges the security of a web page before loading it, and then notifies the user of security risks if any are found

• Compatible with the HopSurf toolbar, which lets you watch TV online, helps you securely keep track of your favorite sites, and puts you in contact with a community of other Comodo dragon users. With the HopSurf toolbar you can add sticky notes to specific web pages that will be viewable by your friends. You can also rate and view ratings of webpages, and use the SurfTimer feature to automate your web surfing using a timed sideshow of pages (useful for checking out your favorites automatically)

• Built-in email security features prevent data interception and ensure safe cyber communication

• Integrated malware profiles help the browser instantly identify and thwart attacks to protect the integrity of your passwords and browsing activity

Cons

• Performance tests reveal that, although Comodo is a formidable competitor with comparable page load times, Chrome does have better Javascript performance.

Alternatives

Although there are plenty of other free web browsers available, Comodo Dragon is unique because it combines the features of a powerful browser with the built-in security and privacy of an effective antivirus software. If you already have an antivirus/firewall software installed, popular browsers like Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer, and Safari are the best alternatives.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a web browser that is both enjoyable to use and secure, Comodo Dragon provides all of the features one would expect from a browser, in a compact, efficient, and secure package.