While Microsoft Edge is the default web browser in the latest version of Windows, there may be instances where you need to access the good old Internet Explorer for specific websites or applications. Internet Explorer, the iconic web browser from Microsoft, has been an integral part of the Windows operating system for decades. While Windows 11 introduces Microsoft Edge as the default browser, Internet Explorer is still available for situations where compatibility with legacy websites, applications, or specific enterprise needs is required. Enabling Internet Explorer ensures a seamless browsing experience, regardless of the website or application requirements. In this article, I will show you how to Enable Internet Explorer Mode in Edge in Windows 11. Please see how to search in Windows 10 to find a file, folder, or program in File Explorer.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions on how to enable Internet Explorer in Windows 11, allowing you to access the websites and applications that rely on its unique features. Whether you have a personal preference for Internet Explorer or you encounter compatibility issues with certain websites or applications, enabling Internet Explorer in Windows 11 will empower you to overcome these challenges and access the content you need. Please see Process Explorer: Replace built-in Task Manager, “Internet Explorer: How to disable IE via Group Policy or Windows Registry Settings“, and How to use the Process Explorer from SysInternals Tools.
Enable Internet Explorer Mode
To do this, open Microsoft Edge and Access Settings
To begin, launch the Microsoft Edge browser on your Windows 11 device. Look for the three-dot menu icon located on the top-right corner of the browser window. Click on the icon to open a dropdown menu, and then select “Settings” from the available options.
Navigate to the Default Browser Section
In the Settings page, locate and click on the “Default Browser” option. Although this section primarily focuses on setting Edge as your default browser, it also provides the necessary controls to enable Internet Explorer Mode.
Enable IE Mode for Websites
Within the Default Browser section, you have two options for enabling Internet Explorer Mode in Edge. The first option is to toggle the “Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode” setting. You can choose between “Default” and “Allow” (avoid selecting “Don’t allow”).
- Default: Selecting this option allows Edge to open in IE Mode automatically if you have previously accessed a page in that mode. This setting does not make IE Mode the default browsing mode; it simply remembers your previous choice.
- Allow: By choosing this option, you gain more control over when to use IE Mode. You can manually reload a specific tab in IE Mode by selecting “Reload in Internet Explorer mode” from the “Settings and more” menu or by right-clicking on the tab and choosing “Open link in new Internet Explorer mode tab.” If you opt for “Allow,” remember that you’ll need to restart the browser for the changes to take effect.
Alternatively, you can add specific web pages to the Internet Explorer Mode list. Be sure to include the complete URL instead of just the address and domain. Note that adding a specific site will only apply for one month, so this method may not be ideal for long-term usage.
Access Websites in Internet Explorer Mode
Once you’ve enabled Internet Explorer Mode, it’s time to access websites that require it. Simply navigate to the desired page within the Edge browser. To open the page in IE Mode, right-click on its tab, and select “Reload tab in Internet Explorer Mode.” This action will reload the page using the Internet Explorer rendering engine, providing compatibility with legacy websites.
By following these steps, you can seamlessly enable and utilize Internet Explorer Mode within the Microsoft Edge browser in Windows 11. Whether you need it for compatibility purposes or accessing specific legacy websites, this feature ensures a smooth browsing experience without the need for separate installations.
Remember to periodically review your Internet Explorer Mode settings in the Edge browser’s “Default Browser” section to ensure they align with your browsing requirements. Enjoy the convenience of accessing IE-dependent websites while enjoying the modern features and security of Microsoft Edge in Windows 11.
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