Accessing Internet Explorer Features in Windows 11 via Microsoft Edge
While it might seem a bit odd, there are still times when you’ll need Internet Explorer in Windows 11. Microsoft Edge has taken centre stage, but they’ve included this handy feature called Internet Explorer Mode. This isn’t just a throwback feature for nostalgia — it’s a real help for those still relying on outdated websites or legacy apps that won’t play nice with modern browsers. Think of it as a time machine that lets you browse the web’s past while enjoying Edge’s latest perks. Essentially, it spares you the hassle of downloading an old browser and keeps you in the here and now, with the option to jump back into the past when needed.
Enabling Internet Explorer Mode in Windows 11
Getting this set up requires some tweaks in Edge’s settings. It’s not just about reminiscing — it ensures legacy sites and tools stay accessible without compromising the security and features of modern browsing. Once configured, it runs smoothly.
Opening Microsoft Edge
Start by opening Microsoft Edge. If it’s not pinned to your taskbar, it’s probably in the Start menu.
*Pro tip:*
Press Win + S, type Microsoft Edge, and hit Enter.
Accessing Edge Settings
Click the three dots (…) in the top right corner to open the menu. Select Settings.
Or, type edge://settings into the address bar for a quicker route.
Locating Default Browser Settings
In Settings, go to Privacy, search, and services. Scroll down to find Address Bar and Search.
Alternatively, enter edge://settings/defaultBrowser directly in the address bar.
Enabling Internet Explorer Mode
In the Default browser section, toggle on Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode. It’s probably turned off by default.
Note for enterprise users:
Open the Group Policy Editor:
Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Microsoft Edge -> Allow Internet Explorer integration
Set this policy to Enabled. It’s also a good idea to prepare a list of sites to automatically open in IE mode via the Enterprise Mode Site List.
Here’s how:
– Create or download an XML site list following Microsoft’s guidelines.
– Save it somewhere accessible, like: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\
– Then, in Group Policy, enable Configure Internet Explorer integration and point it to your site list.
Restartting Edge for Changes to Take Effect
Close all Edge windows and reopen it. When you visit a compatible legacy site, Edge should prompt you to reload in IE mode or automatically switch if set up.
Using IE Mode Effectively
– To quickly open a site in IE mode, click the three dots (…) and select Reload in Internet Explorer mode.
– For convenience, bookmark the site or create a desktop shortcut with specific commands.
Useful commands:
– To launch Edge directly in IE mode for a specific URL:
msedge.exe --ie-mode https://legacywebsite.com
– To set up a shortcut for a particular site:
msedge.exe --ie-mode-url="
Tips for Using Internet Explorer Mode in Windows 11
– Keep Windows 11 updated via Windows Update for the best compatibility with Edge.
– Want an IE Mode button in your toolbar? Head to edge://settings/appearance and enable Show the Internet Explorer mode button in the toolbar.
– To test how sites look in IE mode, you can open Developer Tools with Ctrl + Shift + I and use the Emulation tab.
Common Questions About Internet Explorer on Windows 11
Why isn’t Internet Explorer available in Windows 11?
Microsoft has retired Internet Explorer as a standalone browser, embedding its functionality into Edge for a more unified experience. It’s part of their security and support strategy, showcasing a move away from the old IE.
Do I need to manually install Internet Explorer 11 in Windows 11?
Yes — you can enable it through Windows Features.
– Go to Settings > Apps > Optional Features.
– Click Add a feature.
– Find Internet Explorer 11, select it, and hit Install.
– Alternatively, use PowerShell:
Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64 -Online
*(Run PowerShell as Administrator!).*
Is IE Mode secure to use?
Absolutely. Microsoft keeps Edge updated to ensure IE Mode remains safe, even if it’s mainly for older sites.
Can I set IE Mode as my default browser?
Not quite. IE Mode is designed for specific sites; it turns on automatically when you visit sites that require it. It’s not meant to replace your regular browser.
Quick Checklist for Accessing Internet Explorer in Windows 11
- Launch Microsoft Edge (Win + S, then type Edge).
- Open Settings via the menu or go to edge://settings.
- Navigate to Default browser or Privacy, search, and services.
- Enable Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode.
- Restart Edge — all set!
Managing legacy web content in Windows 11 can be a bit of a pain, but with Edge’s IE Mode, you can keep critical sites working without digging out old browsers. Set it up properly, and you’ll save time, maintain security, and keep your workflow smooth. It’s a handy way to bridge the gap between past and present browsing needs.