Microsoft Windows users across Europe have always had Internet Explorer as their main browser as one of the default settings of the operating system. However, from 1st March all Windows users will be able to choose from Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox or Opera as their Internet browser. This is the result of a legal agreement signed between Microsoft and Europe’s Competition Commission last year.

Microsoft users who are currently using Vista, Windows 7 or Windows XP as their operating system will get automatic software updates which will allow them to choose between several the web browser that are now on offer.

This shift in Europe may make a noticeable difference in browser preferences across the world, says Rory Cellan-Jones, BBC’s technology correspondent. He has noted on his blog that people throughout Europe, to whom making a specific choice about their browser was not an option, may now be actually forced to spare a though to choose from the various options available. This is a time that Microsoft’s competitors will sit up and utilise the marketing opportunities they are being offered to the hilt.

Microsoft has posted updates on their blog including screen shots of what the update will look like. Once the users choose the browser and download the software, a shortcut will appear on the desktop for ease of access to the browser.

For more on getting connected to the internet, take a look at a dedicated broadband website. For information and free advice; it’s a good place to get started on the internet with a broadband price comparison and broadband deals from the best broadband providers.