It doesn't take much time to 'switch things over', Maidup. When you install Firefox it asks if you want to import your 'favorites' (horrid American spelling!) from IE. So you only need to click a single button to 'switch things over'!
Furthermore Maidup, if you were to install 'Firefox' you can still retain IE. and go back to it whensoever you desire. I have four browsers (IE; Google Chrome; Opera and FF.) and have opted for FF as my default one.