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Internet Explorer 8 Impressions.

May 2, 2009

I’ve been using IE8 since it’s official release. Microsoft recently started pushing it as a recommended update.

For me the most compelling reason to upgrade is the new interactive Javascript debugger, included in the Developer Toolbar. Anyone who is doing web development understands just how difficult it can be to debug javascript code. A debugger makes it so much easier.

Think Firebug for Internet Explorer.

IE8 includes the Developer Toolbar by default, which can be activated by pressing F12.

The new tools inlude the usual DOM and CSS explorers as well as the new debugger.

The debugger interface is pretty straighforward and should be easily accessible to anyone who has used an interactive debugger.Another interesting thing to note is the “Compatibility View”. This mode makes IE8 behave like IE7. The view can be activiated via special coding directives or using the icon next to the address bar.

Most modern sites won’t require the compatibility view, but it may be needed for older sites with IE specific code.