Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 will be retired by the company in 2022 for most versions of Windows.
Microsoft announced the end of Internet Explorer today, a day after the official release of Windows 10 version 21H1.
The browser will not be supported on all Windows 10 and Windows 10 IoT SKUs from version 20H2 onwards until June 15, 2022.
Microsoft plans to disable Internet Explorer 11 on all unsupported versions and redirect requests that attempt to open Internet Explorer in the Microsoft Edge browser. Internet Explorer 11 will not be removed from the operating system because its engine is required for IE Mode. IE Mode will bridge the gap between using the Edge browser and accessing applications and websites that require specific Internet Explorer technologies.
The following versions of Windows are not affected by the decision:
Internet Explorer (IE Mode) will be supported by at least 2029, according to Microsoft, and the company says it will issue warnings a year before the shutdown.
Microsoft says that the new browser, Microsoft Edge, offers a faster, more secure, and more modern browsing experience than Internet Explorer, and that it will address one of the major concerns of users and organizations with IE Mode in the browser. IE may be able to run older sites that require Internet Explorer features that are not supported by modern browsers.
The decision to withdraw Internet Explorer was based on the following reasons, according to Microsoft:
Microsoft Edge offers improved web compatibility as it is based on Chromium, the same kernel as Google Chrome and other browsers such as Vivaldi, Brave or Opera.
Optimized productivity as users and organizations can focus on one browser instead of having to juggle between two browsers.
Better browser security with new features and better browser built-in protection.
Administrators can configure IE Mode in Microsoft Edge using this official wizard to allow users to open websites using Internet Explorer. Microsoft states that applications developed for IE should run in IE Mode on Microsoft Edge. A dedicated email address, ACHELP@microsoft.com, is available to report compatibility issues when opening IE-designed websites designed for Internet Explorer.
Microsoft will not give any extension after the deadline of June 15, 2022.
Microsoft has published an FAQ on its Tech Community website that answers frequently asked questions and contains many links for further support.
George is still wondering what he is doing here….
