Microsoft introduces Explorer 5 with free Internet download

Microsoft has announced the launch of a new version of its Internet Explorer browser and said it would be available for free over the Internet.

The company also said yesterday it would integrate the new browser into a second version of its Windows 98 operating system, scheduled for release in the fourth quarter.

The company said Internet Explorer 5 would be 25 per cent faster than the previous version and will incorporate new features for downloading audio content.