If you’re looking to download Internet Explorer on Windows 11, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the process step by step. Many users still need Internet Explorer for various reasons, and even though Windows 11 doesn’t come with it pre-installed, you can still access it through a few simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have Internet Explorer up and running in no time.
How to Download Internet Explorer in Windows 11
We’ll show you how to enable Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge, as Windows 11 doesn’t directly support downloading Internet Explorer. This approach will let you use Internet Explorer’s features within Microsoft’s new Edge browser. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge
Launch Microsoft Edge from your taskbar or start menu.
It’s important to start with Microsoft Edge because Windows 11 uses Edge as its default browser, and there’s no separate Internet Explorer application available on this operating system.
Step 2: Access the Settings Menu
Click on the three horizontal dots in the top-right corner of Edge, then select "Settings."
Navigating to the settings menu will allow you to customize how Edge behaves, including enabling Internet Explorer mode.
Step 3: Go to Default Browser Section
In the settings menu, scroll down and find the "Default browser" option on the left sidebar.
This section contains various settings related to how Edge interacts with web content and other browsers, including Internet Explorer compatibility.
Step 4: Enable Internet Explorer Mode
Toggle the "Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode" switch to "On."
This action will enable Internet Explorer mode within Edge, allowing you to load web pages as if you were using Internet Explorer itself.
Step 5: Restart Microsoft Edge
Close and reopen Microsoft Edge to apply the changes.
Restarting Edge is essential to ensure that the Internet Explorer mode settings take effect properly.
Step 6: Use Internet Explorer Mode
Navigate to any website, click the three dots in the upper-right corner again, then select "Reload in Internet Explorer mode."
This final step switches the rendering engine to Internet Explorer for the website you are visiting, giving you access to all the features of the older browser.
After completing these steps, you’ll be able to use Internet Explorer mode within Microsoft Edge. This mode will let you access websites and features that require Internet Explorer, while still benefiting from the modern features of Edge.
Tips for Using Internet Explorer Mode in Windows 11
- Make sure to update Microsoft Edge regularly to avoid security vulnerabilities.
- Use Internet Explorer mode only when necessary, as Edge offers better performance and security.
- Pin frequently used sites that require Internet Explorer mode to your Edge start page for quick access.
- Familiarize yourself with Edge’s developer tools for troubleshooting.
- Check Microsoft’s support page for any updates or changes to Internet Explorer mode.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still download Internet Explorer as a standalone application in Windows 11?
No, Windows 11 does not support Internet Explorer as a standalone application. You can only use Internet Explorer mode within Microsoft Edge.
Why do some sites still need Internet Explorer?
Some older websites and web applications are built on legacy technologies that are only fully compatible with Internet Explorer.
Is Internet Explorer mode in Edge secure?
Yes, Internet Explorer mode in Edge uses the security features of Edge while maintaining compatibility with older sites.
Can I set Internet Explorer mode as default for specific sites?
Yes, you can configure Edge to automatically open certain sites in Internet Explorer mode through the settings menu.
Will Internet Explorer mode affect the performance of my current browser?
Using Internet Explorer mode might slightly affect performance due to the older rendering engine, but it should not significantly impact your overall browsing experience.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Access the Settings menu.
- Go to Default Browser section.
- Enable Internet Explorer mode.
- Restart Microsoft Edge.
- Use Internet Explorer mode.
Conclusion
In summary, while you can’t download Internet Explorer directly on Windows 11, you can still access its features through Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge. This mode ensures that you can still use legacy websites and applications that require Internet Explorer without needing to switch to an older operating system. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily enable this mode and switch between Edge and Internet Explorer functionality as needed.
Remember to use Internet Explorer mode sparingly and only for sites that absolutely require it. Modern browsers like Edge are designed to offer better security, faster performance, and a more streamlined user experience. If you have any questions or run into any issues, Microsoft’s support pages are a great resource. Happy browsing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.