Download Opera: Where and How
Originally launched in 1994, Opera is one of oldest Web browsers used today. While not as popular as some of the larger browsers such as Internet Explorer or Safari, Opera does have a loyal following, with more than 270 million users.
The current version of Opera boasts a number of new features, including the ability to customize the look of your browser by choosing from hundreds of themes. In addition, Opera 12 received a significant speed boost. It starts faster, loads pages faster and renders HTML5 faster. The browser's plug-ins run in their own process, so if they crash, Opera keeps running smoothly. The latest version of Opera also has beefed-up security controls. The Opera security badge lets you understand the security and privacy policies of the websites you visit and quickly see if a site is using your location information or wants to turn on your webcam. The browser supports a number of popular extensions, including ExtendTube, which adds options for watching and downloading YouTube videos, and Tab Vault, which allows you to store tabs for later.
Where to Download Opera
Because the browser is free, the best and safest place to download the browser is directly from the Opera website. The browser can be downloaded for both Macs and Windows PCs directly from that site. The browser can also be downloaded through a number of free file-sharing sites, such as FileHippoand Softonic, or as an app through the Apple store.
Downloading Opera
To download Opera, log onto the Opera download page and click "Download Opera." As soon as you visit the site, it should automatically recognize the type of computer you are using and the version of Opera — either Mac or Windows compatible — that you need. Once the browser is downloaded, you must accept the license agreement before using. In addition, your computer must meet certain minimum requirements. Mac computers must be running on the Leopard 10.5 operating system, while Windows computers must be using the Windows XP or a later operating system and have at least 256 MB of RAM and 100 MB of free disk space.
Download Time
Depending on Internet speed, downloading Opera can take between 30 seconds and 10 minutes to complete.
Download Dangers
While Opera is available through a number of free file-sharing websites, it is recommended that you download directly from Opera. By downloading through a file-sharing or free share website, there is a risk that the browser may contain viruses, spyware or other malware that can infect a computer.
