The constant connectivity associated with high speed, broadband Internet has opened the door for all sorts of browser related short-cuts that makes Internet functionality as simple as the click of a button. Some of the most common Internet functions of toolbars are ones that attach themselves to various browser software packages.
Google Toolbars
One of the most commonly downloaded toolbars available is the Google toolbar. The Google toolbar is closely associated with the Google search engine, allowing users to carry the power of Google search with them wherever they travel on the Web.
The toolbar’s landing page is located at http://toolbar.google.com, where it can be downloaded for free. The toolbar’s landing page URL is dynamic, making it capable of determining which type of browser software you are using and therefore taking you to the appropriate download page. For example, Internet Explorer users will be immediately redirected to the landing page at http://toolbar.google.com, whereas Firefox and Netscape users will be immediately redirected to the landing page at http://toolbar.google.com/firefox/index.html.
Once you find yourself on either of the Google toolbar’s landing pages, you can download the software directly, or you can choose to learn a little more about its functionality first. Some of the more noteworthy features that are associated with the Google toolbar include:
- Google search engine window.
- Pop-up blocker software helps you stop unwanted advertisements from loading and slowing down your system.
- PageRank display allows you to know whether a site is popular or not (this can work hand-in-hand with security).
- The Autofill feature available through the Google toolbar software allows you to keep all of your form information stored online so that you can fill out e-forms with a click of a button.
WebToolbars.com Toolbars
WebToolbars is a popular online service that allows you to create your own toolbars for use within your own personal Web site. There are a number of pre-made toolbar services out there, but very few services that allow you to customize your own toolbar software.
The WebToolbars landing page is located at http://www.webtoolbars.com/. Here, visitors can get information about the service, learn about the various types of advertising that are available through the WebToolbars service, get access to the online toolbar editor and even view examples of existing toolbars that have been customized through the WebToolbars service.
Some of the features you get with the WebToolbars service include:
- Focus visitors of your Web site on the “hotspots” associated with your site. For example, help push them towards the content that you want them to see.
- Bypass various types of pop-up blocker software allowing you to advertise in areas that your competitors cannot.
- Participate in a free banner ad exchange program that allows professionals to network their online properties and get valuable advertising from related vendors.
- Attract visitors back to your site even after they leave. By having your toolbar downloaded on their browser, they are always a click away from accessing your page and your content.
Toolbars can make Internet navigation a great deal easier and more efficient for even the most experienced Web surfer. Log on to the aforementioned services today to learn more about their toolbar related products and services.
