MidexPRO is one of the UK’s best private medical Practice Management software packages, which has been entirely cloud-based since 2015.
MidexPRO strives to keep its software up to date with the latest industry updates and recommendations, and to ensure your version of MidexPRO runs smoothly, without any lag and with maximum security, it is vital that web browsers and software are up to date.
Microsoft regularly releases updates for many of their products and MidexPRO recommend you follow Microsoft’s advice and install as prompted. Updates to these products will ensure your MidexPRO package runs effectively and efficiently.
What are web browsers?
Web browsers play a critical role in company systems because they act as the interface between employees and many of the digital tools businesses rely on. A web browser is a software application used to access and view websites, with popular browsers including:
- Google Chrome.
- Mozilla Firefox.
- Microsoft Edge.
- Safari.
MidexPRO supports each of the above, as can be seen in the ‘Software Disclaimer’ information found in the footer of this website. The Disclaimer also details the minimum requirements a PC or mobile device must have for MidexPRO to run smoothly.
By changing habits to the recommended browsers, it helps ensure the best User experience not only for MidexPRO but also for any other web activity performed.
In the workplace, words such as ‘browser’, ‘browser extension’ and ‘cookies’ come up on a regular basis, but do we fully appreciate what they are and what they do? If not, read on, for more of an insight.
Browsers are a frontline defence against cyber threats and if not properly managed, they can become a vulnerability. Phishing protection and malware blocking are built into modern browsers, secure connections (HTTPS) ensure data is encrypted and browser updates patch known security flaws. This means, reduced risk of data breaches and better compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR.
MidexPRO is Cloud-based which means data sits in the Cloud and can be accessed from any mobile device with the correct secure log-in information. By not keeping your browser or PC up to date, you also risk potential errors within MidexPRO. The MidexPRO Software Team keeps the most recent updates valid on all elements of its software; therefore, if yours is not up to date, your PC and MidexPRO won’t be ‘talking’ in the same language, and errors will occur. Outdated browsers may not support newer features or layouts within systems and browser-specific bugs can cause functionality issues.
Browser issues are a common source of IT support tickets and problems like the ones listed below are often resolved by updating the browser, clearing cookies/cache, or switching to a supported browser:
- Pages not loading.
- Login failures.
- Issues such as broken buttons or forms.
Why keeping your browser updated matters
- Security Enhancements
- Browsers are a common target for cyberattacks.
- Updates patch vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.
- An outdated browser may expose you to malware, phishing, and data breaches.
- Performance Improvements
- Updates often include optimisations that make browsing faster and smoother.
- They reduce crashes, memory usage, and loading times.
- Compatibility with Websites
- Modern websites use advanced technologies.
- An updated browser ensures proper display and functionality of these sites.
- New Features
- Updates bring new tools and user interface improvements.
- Examples include better tab management, privacy controls, and accessibility options.
- Compliance and Support
- Many web apps (especially in business environments) require up-to-date browsers for full functionality.
- IT departments often enforce browser standards for compatibility and security.
How to keep your browser updated
Most browsers update automatically, but manual checks can be done:
- Chrome: Settings > About Chrome.
- Firefox: Settings > General > Firefox Updates.
- Edge: Settings > About Microsoft Edge.
- Safari: Updates come via macOS updates.
What is a browser extension?
A browser extension is a small software module that adds specific features or functionality to a web browser. Think of it like an app for your browser—it customises or enhances your browsing experience.
What can browser extensions do?
Here are some common uses:
- Ad blockers (e.g., uBlock Origin) – remove ads from websites.
- Password managers (e.g., LastPass, Bitwarden) – securely store and autofill login credentials.
- Productivity tools (e.g., Todoist, Grammarly) – help with writing, task management, and more.
- Privacy tools (e.g., DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials) – block trackers and improve online privacy.
- Web development tools (e.g., React Developer Tools) – assist developers in debugging and testing.
Are browser extensions safe?
They can be, but it’s important to:
- Install only from trusted sources (like the Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons).
- Check reviews and permissions before installing.
- Keep them updated to avoid security vulnerabilities.
- Remove unused extensions to reduce risk and improve performance.
How to manage extensions
Most browsers let you manage extensions via their settings, where they can be enabled, disabled, updated, or removed
- Chrome: Menu > Extensions.
- Firefox: Menu > Add-ons and Themes.
- Edge: Menu > Extensions.
Please note that the ‘Piggy – Automatic Coupons & Cash Back’ extension causes MidexPRO to grey out. To check if this is switched on or off on your device, go to the extensions section within the browser settings.
Other extensions are allowed, but it is important to avoid having too many installed, as this can affect performance extensions.
What is a browser cookie?
A browser cookie is a small piece of data that a website stores on your computer through your web browser. Cookies help websites remember information about you to improve your browsing experience.
What do cookies do?
Here are the main types and purposes:
- Session Cookies
- Temporary and deleted when a browser is closed.
- Used to remember things like items in the shopping cart or login status during a single visit.
- Persistent Cookies
- Stay on a device for a set period.
- Help websites remember user preferences (e.g., language, theme) or login info across visits.
- Third-Party Cookies
- Set by domains other than the one you’re visiting.
- Often used for tracking and advertising across multiple sites.
Are cookies safe?
Generally, yes – but they can raise privacy concerns, including tracking and data storage. The former is where some cookies monitor activity across websites to build a profile for targeted ads. Regarding data storage, while cookies don’t store sensitive data like passwords directly, they can be used to maintain sessions that, if hijacked, could pose risks.
Managing cookies
Cookies can be controlled in browser settings:
- Clear cookies: Useful for troubleshooting or protecting privacy.
- Block third-party cookies: Helps reduce tracking.
- Set site-specific permissions: Allow or deny cookies for specific websites.
Not sure how to keep your PC and devices up to date?
If you have an IT Support Company that oversees your PCs, then these updates will be taking place automatically. However, if you don’t have IT Support, it is necessary to ensure any requests to update software are carried out when prompted.
If you are not sure about updates or need assistance, the MidexPRO Support Team is happy to help. They have a checklist they can run through with you, and should any amendments be needed, they can provide suggestions to either pass on to your IT Support or for you to action yourself. If there are multiple updates and don’t have IT support, our team can help. This service is chargeable (POA) depending on the scope of work.
The Support Team is unable to provide any other IT support beyond the time for the updates, but they will ensure you have an operating system that continues to be secure and working to its optimum level.
If you would like to take advantage of this option or have any questions regarding security and MidexPRO, please contact Support on 0330 999 3399 or email us at support@midexpro.com