Microsoft to Permanently Disable Internet Explorer 11 in February 2023
Published: Dec 19, 2022
Microsoft has announced some changes in its plans to kill off Internet Explorer (IE11) on Windows 10. The company detailed that it will release a Microsoft Edge update to permanently disable the legacy Internet Explorer desktop app on select versions of Windows 10 in February 2023.
Previously, Microsoft announced that it would disable Internet Explorer 11 through a Windows update on Windows 10 devices. The company started to gradually redirect all IE11 users toward its Edge browser on June 15, 2022. However, Microsoft didn’t reveal when this process will be completed.
Microsoft explained that it will redirect all remaining Windows 10 devices through a Microsoft Edge update on February 14, 2023. It should ensure a better user experience and make the transition easier for enterprise customers. However, this change will not impact organizations that have already ditched Internet Explorer.
Microsoft highlights that its new Chromium-based Edge comes with a dedicated IE Mode. The feature enables customers to keep using their legacy IE-based sites and apps that were previously designed to run on Internet Explorer.
“Users will see a dialogue box when they are transitioned to Microsoft Edge. When they try to click any IE11 icons or other entry points, they will be redirected to Microsoft Edge. Users’ browsing data will be automatically brought over to Microsoft Edge from IE11 so they can seamlessly continue browsing,” Microsoft explained.
How to prepare for the permanent disablement of Internet Explorer
Microsoft plans to completely remove all Internet Explorer references from Windows 10 machines with the Patch Tuesday updates scheduled for June 13, 2023. This means that users will no longer see the IE icon in the Start menu or on the taskbar.
Microsoft recommends organizations to switch to Microsoft Edge as soon as possible. However, those who fail to complete the transition may experience disruptions in their business workflows. The company encourages IT admins to open a support ticket or contact its App Assure team to deal with any technical or app compatibility issues.