I am getting the message that my browser is outdated when I first log in. In fact, best I can determine and I almost know I do, I already have Internet explorer 8 as a browser. Why am I getting this message? Is there anything I need to do? I am still getting on site just fine.

Help -> About is the usual method for determining the name and version of a program. It would be worth checking the precise version you are using.

IE8 is the most up-to-date version of Internet Explorer ( - though IE9 beta is scheduled for release in less than a week, on September 15th).

Do you have compatibility mode enabled?