Internet Explorer is the most used browser in the world. But the problem is that many people are stuck with older versions. To combat this, Microsoft has decided to start automatic upgrades for IE across Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7. Starting from this month, the upgrades will roll out to each and every genuine Windows user starting from Australia and Brazil.

An up-to-date browser is a win-win situation for both developers and users. Malware is generally targeted towards outdated software such as a web browser. An updated browser ensures the safest browsing experience to users by protecting them against malware. Declaring the death of IE6 highlights the efforts Microsoft has taken towards the betterment of the Web.

In my opinion, IE9 is the best version of IE to date, and the statistics also reflect this. Recently it was reported that in the US, the usage of IE9 has reached the top and it's the most used browser on Windows 7. The worldwide usage of IE9 on Windows 7 is now second only to IE8 and is set to overtake it very soon.

Microsoft has released IE8 and IE9 automatic update blocker kits for those individuals and organizations who would like to update IE as per their own schedule. Also, users who have declined previous installations of IE8 or IE9 through Windows Update will not be updated automatically.