How To Enable Internet Explorer on Windows 11 for Seamless Browsing

Getting Internet Explorer Compatibility in Windows 11

So, Internet Explorer is basically ghosted now that Microsoft’s all in on Edge. It’s kind of a pain if you’re still dealing with those old websites that refuse to die. Thankfully, Edge has this feature called IE Mode that lets you navigate IE-only sites without going through the hassle of switching browsers. Here’s how to get it up and running in Windows 11.

Key Points for Windows 11 Users

With Windows 11, you won’t find IE hanging out on your desktop like before. Instead, you’ll have to wrangle it through Edge’s settings. It’s a bit more hands-on than just clicking an icon. You can set this up using the Edge settings, Group Policy, or even the Registry Editor if you’re feeling adventurous.

Steps to Turn on Internet Explorer Mode in Windows 11

This isn’t rocket science, but it might take a few tries to get everything sorted the way you want. Remember, IE Mode is mainly for those websites that still live in the past.

Launch Microsoft Edge

First up, open Edge. If you’ve got Windows 11, it’s probably hanging around in your Start menu or pinned to your taskbar. Just make sure you’ve got the latest version—version 112 or higher is what you’ll want for all the bells and whistles.

You can check your version at edge://settings/help.

Access the Settings Menu

Click that three-dot menu at the top right. From the dropdown, hit Settings. It’s where all the magic happens. Expect to see a plethora of options to tinker with. Do it right, and you can get those pesky legacy sites to load without throwing a fit.

Go to the ‘Default Browser’ Section

In the settings menu, look for the Default browser option. This is where Edge controls how it handles legacy content, so it’s kind of a big deal. It should be easy to find once you’ve opened the sidebar. Just click on it.

Enable Internet Explorer Mode

Find the toggle that says Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode and switch that sucker on. What this does is tell Edge, “Hey, if a site needs IE vibes, reload it like it’s 1999.” Seriously, it’s a lifesaver when you hit one of those old-school pages.

Restart Edge

After flipping the switch, restart Edge to make sure the change sticks. Close it and open it back up; this is just a smart move to roll out any new settings you’ve set. Now, the next time you hit a site that needs IE mode, Edge should pick up on it.

If you’re looking to manage which sites open in IE mode, there’s a configuration file you can edit: C:\Users\\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default\Extensions\{GUID}\your_site_list.json.

Tips for Using Internet Explorer Mode

• Know What You Need: Only dive into IE mode if a site actually requires it. Many sites are finally upgrading—huzzah! Use F12 to check rendering modes if unsure.
• Keep Edge Up to Date: Regularly check for updates under Settings > Help & Feedback > About Microsoft Edge. No one wants to run an outdated browser.
• Limit IE Usage: Use IE mode wisely. It’s a workaround, not a long-term plan. Keeping the security risks in mind is a must.
• Look for Modern Alternatives: See if newer versions of the sites exist. Who knows, they might’ve finally updated!
• Understand the Quirks: IE mode isn’t a perfect clone of Internet Explorer—some things might act up, so keep a close watch when using it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still find Internet Explorer on Windows 11?

Nope, it’s gone. You’ll be using Edge’s IE mode to access those old sites instead. It’s the new norm, like it or not.

Is IE Mode safe to use?

Yes, it uses Edge’s security features while letting you access legacy sites. But there’s always a risk with older sites, especially if they have forms for sensitive info.

Why did they ditch Internet Explorer?

Microsoft wanted to focus on Edge, which is way more secure and faster. Plus, it follows modern web standards better. They’re nudging everyone towards more secure browsing.

Can I set up IE mode for certain websites?