How to Enable Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge
Reading Time: 3 minutesMicrosoft Edge packs in a handy feature called Internet Explorer mode for visiting unsupported websites. Here’s how to enable the feature.
With Microsoft firmly retiring Internet Explorer back in June 2022 after 27 years, some users may not be ready to say goodbye to the iconic web browser. Microsoft has shifted its focus to its latest web browser, Microsoft Edge.
Using an older browser like Internet Explorer allows you to view older websites that might not support more modern browsers. Luckily, Microsoft Edge has offered a solution with Internet Explorer mode. But what exactly is it, how does it work, and does it make a difference in browsing?
What Is Internet Explorer Mode?
Some people may still want to use Internet Explorer (IE). And with Microsoft Edge being the second most-used desktop browser since it is more secure and runs on Windows 11, it doesn’t plan on slowing down. So, you may be wondering what IE mode entails.
The feature enables access to websites not supported by a single modern browser by using a dual-engine system determined based on the websites you visit. So if you need to access a website that hasn’t been updated or supported by modern browsers, you need IE mode.
And if you plan on using IE mode and sticking with Microsoft Edge, it is easy to make Edge your default browser in Windows 11.
How to Enable Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge
Enabling IE mode is simple. First, open Microsoft Edge and click on the Ellipsis button, which is a set of three periods (ยทยทยท) in the top-right of the menu icon. Next, click on Settings to be taken to the settings page.
From the left-hand pane, click on the Default browser option. Under the Internet Explorer compatibility option, click on Allow from the dropdown box options in the Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode section, and click the Restart button.
The browser will restart, and you will now be in Internet Explorer mode. The feature will be above More tools in the Ellipsis. It will appear as either Reload in Internet Explorer mode or Exit Internet Explorer mode, depending if you have it switched on.
You will know you’re in IE mode thanks to the Internet Explorer logo on the left of the address bar, which you can click on to display additional information. Only the sites you configure to use IE mode will take advantage of the feature. Otherwise, sites will continue to use Microsoft Edge.
You can turn IE mode on and off at any time, and even have the option to add IE mode to the menu bar on the top right for quicker access.
Will Internet Explorer Mode Make Any Difference While Browsing in Edge?
According to Microsoft, Edge is the only browser with built-in compatibility for IE-based sites and apps and the only browser to enable access to both old and modern sites.
IE mode offers users an ‘allow list’ where they can identify and access trusted sites. For safer browsing, websites not on the list automatically open using the modern engine. But you can, however, choose which websites to render.
The feature provides more security as IE mode does not support toolbars, which reduces malware and phishing attacks. But since Internet Explorer is an old browser, it is prone to vulnerabilities and exploitation due to its lack of security features on modern browsers.
You shouldn’t expect the feature to last forever, as Microsoft plans to end support for IE mode in 2029. But will give users one year’s notice beforehand.
Take Advantage of Internet Explore Mode in Edge
If you have Windows and use Microsoft Edge, there’s no harm in giving IE mode a try to give yourself an idea of how it works. But Mac and Linux users will miss out on the opportunity of using the feature, as it only works on Windows desktops.
Now that you’ve enabled Internet Explorer mode, Microsoft Edge has more to offer, even some hidden features that might be worth checking out.