Why Does UPS Worldship Use Internet Explorer in 2019?

If you are a user of UPS Worldship software, you may have noticed that the software still runs on Internet Explorer in 2019, despite the fact that this browser has largely fallen out of favor with many users and IT professionals. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this decision and address some of the challenges that come with this choice.

The Evolution of UPS Worldship and Its Relationship with Internet Explorer

UPS Worldship is a shipping software application used by businesses to manage their shipping activities. It was first introduced by United Parcel Service (UPS) in the mid-1990s and has since undergone several updates to improve performance and functionality. From the beginning, the software was built on the Internet Explorer platform, which was the dominant browser at that time.

As time passes, new browsers have emerged and gained popularity. Even though these modern browsers offer improved functionality, UPS Worldship still utilizes Internet Explorer. The reason for this is that the application has not been updated to be compatible with the latest versions of other web browsers, which could result in critical issues.

Despite the fact that UPS Worldship still relies on Internet Explorer, the company has acknowledged the need to update the software to be compatible with other browsers. In recent years, UPS has been working on a new version of Worldship that will be compatible with modern browsers such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. This new version is expected to be released in the near future.

In addition to browser compatibility, UPS Worldship has also evolved to include new features and integrations. For example, the software now offers integration with popular e-commerce platforms such as Shopify and WooCommerce, allowing businesses to easily manage their shipping activities from within their online store. UPS Worldship has also added support for international shipping, making it easier for businesses to expand their reach and ship to customers around the world.

Understanding the Technical Requirements of UPS Worldship Software

To gain a better understanding of why UPS Worldship persists with Internet Explorer, it is essential to have a knowledge of the technical requirements of this software. From version 2018, UPS Worldship requires Internet Explorer 11, which has several important features, including improved security, faster page loading speed, and compatibility with web standards.

One of the crucial requirements for the UPS Worldship software is ActiveX, a Microsoft technology that allows for the execution of scripts and communication with other applications. ActiveX is not supported by any other web browsers outside of Internet Explorer, which makes it a fundamental requirement for the software to function correctly.

In addition to ActiveX, UPS Worldship also requires a stable internet connection with a minimum speed of 56 kbps. This is necessary for the software to communicate with the UPS servers and transmit shipping data in real-time. Furthermore, the software requires a minimum of 1 GB of RAM and 2 GB of free hard disk space to operate efficiently. It is also recommended to have a dedicated graphics card with a minimum of 128 MB of video memory to ensure smooth operation of the software.

The Compatibility Challenges of UPS Worldship with Modern Browsers

One of the significant challenges that come with running UPS Worldship on Internet Explorer is compatibility. Many modern browsers, such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, have stopped supporting Internet Explorer’s underlying technology, ActiveX, which provides the essential functionalities that the software requires. These browsers have opted for more secure and advanced options, such as HTML5, JavaScript, and other web technologies that are incompatible with UPS Worldship’s requirements, making it impossible to use the software without Internet Explorer.

However, UPS has recognized this issue and has been working on a solution to make the software compatible with modern browsers. They have developed a new version of UPS Worldship that uses HTML5 and JavaScript, which are supported by most modern browsers. This new version also includes additional security features to ensure the safety of the user’s data. While this new version is not yet available to all users, UPS is actively working on making it accessible to everyone in the near future.

Why Internet Explorer is Still a Viable Option for UPS Worldship Users

Despite the several challenges that come with using Internet Explorer, the browser has several advantages, which make it an attractive option for some UPS Worldship users. One of the primary reasons is the long history of use of Internet Explorer with UPS Worldship, which has established a certain comfort level for users. Additionally, many of the features and functionalities in the software can only be accessed through Internet Explorer.

Another advantage of using Internet Explorer with UPS Worldship is its compatibility with older operating systems. Many businesses still use older computers and operating systems, which may not be compatible with newer browsers. Internet Explorer provides a reliable option for these users, allowing them to continue using UPS Worldship without having to upgrade their entire system.

Furthermore, Internet Explorer has a robust security system that protects users from potential cyber threats. The browser has built-in security features, such as SmartScreen Filter and Enhanced Protected Mode, which help to prevent malware and phishing attacks. This is particularly important for businesses that handle sensitive information, such as customer data and financial records.

The Pros and Cons of Using Internet Explorer for UPS Worldship

Like any software, using Internet Explorer for UPS Worldship comes with its pros and cons. The main advantages are that it is stable, reliable, and provides a seamless experience, which are critical requirements for businesses that depend on the software. On the other hand, the main downside is that Internet Explorer is no longer the most secure browser, and its age can lead to issues with slow performance and poor compatibility with other websites and applications.

Another advantage of using Internet Explorer for UPS Worldship is that it is a familiar browser for many users. This means that employees who are already familiar with Internet Explorer will require less training to use the software effectively. Additionally, Internet Explorer is still widely used in many businesses, which means that it is often the default browser on many computers, making it a convenient choice for those who do not want to install additional software.

However, it is important to note that using Internet Explorer for UPS Worldship may not be the best choice for businesses that require the latest security features. As mentioned earlier, Internet Explorer is no longer the most secure browser, and using it may put your business at risk of cyber attacks. In such cases, it may be better to consider using a more modern browser, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, which offer better security features and are more compatible with other websites and applications.

The Impact of Phasing Out Internet Explorer on UPS Worldship Users

There have been debates about phasing out Internet Explorer in favor of modern and more secure browsers. However, this move would be costly, and require developers to rewrite the application’s code from scratch, which is not only a time-consuming process but is also likely to result in critical issues. Phasing out Internet Explorer would mean that UPS Worldship users would need to adjust to a new browser, which may result in a steep learning curve and decreased productivity.

Furthermore, some UPS Worldship users may not have the option to switch to a different browser due to company policies or restrictions. This could lead to compatibility issues and potential errors when using the application. Additionally, some users may have customized settings or preferences within Internet Explorer that may not be available in other browsers, causing frustration and inconvenience.

Navigating Security Concerns with Internet Explorer and UPS Worldship

Security is one of the critical concerns for any business, and using an outdated browser like Internet Explorer might pose a security risk. However, businesses that use UPS Worldship can take several steps to ensure that they remain protected. One of the key steps that organizations can take is to patch and update their Internet Explorer installation regularly and ensure that their antivirus software is up to date.

Another important step that businesses can take to enhance their security is to use a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing UPS Worldship. A VPN encrypts the data that is transmitted between the user’s device and the UPS Worldship server, making it more difficult for hackers to intercept and steal sensitive information. Additionally, businesses should educate their employees on best practices for online security, such as avoiding suspicious emails and websites, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible.

The Future of UPS Worldship and Its Browser Compatibility

Given that there is a need for active development and support for web applications, it is likely that UPS Worldship will eventually migrate from Internet Explorer to another more modern browser. However, given the critical nature of shipping for businesses, it is essential for any move to be carefully planned and executed to ensure that there are no significant disruptions in operations.

Furthermore, the migration to a new browser may also require updates to the existing hardware and software infrastructure. This could include upgrading operating systems, installing new drivers, and ensuring compatibility with other business-critical applications. As such, businesses using UPS Worldship should stay informed about any upcoming changes and plan accordingly to minimize any potential disruptions.

Tips for Optimizing Your Experience with Internet Explorer and UPS Worldship

Finally, for businesses that rely on UPS Worldship and Internet Explorer, there are several tips that can help optimize their performance and experience, such as clearing the browser’s cache and disabling unnecessary add-ons. Businesses can also consider increasing resources allocated to their PC hardware to ensure that the software runs smoothly.

In conclusion, the reason that UPS Worldship uses Internet Explorer in 2019 is due to the software’s technical requirements, which make it challenging to be compatible with modern browsers. While this choice comes with several challenges, it remains a viable option for users who require a stable, reliable, and seamless experience to streamline their shipping activities. As the software continues to evolve, we can expect more developments designed to ensure that it can work with more modern browsers and better serve the needs of businesses worldwide.

Another tip for optimizing your experience with Internet Explorer and UPS Worldship is to ensure that your software is up to date. Regularly checking for updates and installing them can help improve the software’s performance and address any bugs or issues that may arise. Additionally, businesses can consider using a dedicated computer solely for UPS Worldship to minimize any potential conflicts with other software or programs.

It’s also important to note that while Internet Explorer may not be the most popular browser in 2019, it still has a significant user base. This means that businesses that rely on UPS Worldship may need to ensure that their website and online presence are compatible with Internet Explorer to avoid any potential issues or lost sales. It’s always a good idea to test your website on multiple browsers to ensure that it is accessible to all users, regardless of their preferred browser.