An Australian PC retailer has come up with a novel way of supporting the 'alternative' software movement.

Tekfix Computing Solutions is offering a discount on products purchased online using Firefox rather than Internet Explorer.

The firm has the backing of Google and the Mozilla Foundation to switch internet users to the open source browser.

"We are looking to give people an opportunity to get away from the built-in browser that comes with Windows," said Tony Schirmer, marketing manager at Tekfix.

"In my experience Mozilla has provided more security and a better overall experience when browsing the internet. We want to reward people who take the next step and try the browser for themselves."

A five per cent discount is available when Firefox is detected on the coupon code entry, leaving all other shoppers with the full fee.

The move follows a similar effort by Google, which introduced paid referrals into its AdSense system, allowing any AdSense publisher to earn money from referring users to Firefox provided it contains the Google Toolbar.

The non-profit Mozilla Foundation has recently released the second Firefox 3 beta for testing.