Internet Explorer (IE), which served as the primary gateway to the internet in the late 90s and early 2000s, has been discontinued by Microsoft as of June 15, 2022.

Internet Explorer (IE) was the original web browser to bring us all online in 1995, and it enjoyed a dominant share of the browser market until Google Chrome made it less relevant.

Internet Explorer held 59% of global market share in 2014, followed by Chrome with 21%. Two years later, IE lost its lead position to Chrome and was overtaken by Safari for third place.

Microsoft's Edge browser, released in 2015, signaled the beginning of Microsoft's transition away from Internet Explorer as the official browser on Windows systems. By 2016, Edge would replace IE as the standard option for users on Microsoft systems.

Technology will continue to influence our work and personal lives, but some of our favorite tools may no longer be relevant. Adobe Flash Player was one example; though once widely used, it is now outdated.

What happens now that IE has reached the end of its lifespan?

Microsoft will redirect users to IE Mode in Edge

Microsoft has announced the discontinuation of IE support and will provide a new experience over the course of several months. Instead of opening the old browser, users will be redirected to Microsoft Edge with IE mode enabled.

Microsoft has added Internet Explorer Mode to Edge in an effort to make it simpler for users to transition away from Internet Explorer. This mode enables organizations to utilize legacy sites that were optimized for IE, using Trident MSHTML from IE11 for this purpose.

You'll still be able to view the Internet Explorer icon when in IE mode, but clicking it will launch Microsoft Edge instead.

Microsoft to Remove Internet Explorer Icons in the Future

At present, Microsoft is not planning on removing IE icons found in locations such as the taskbar or Start menu. However, they will be removed in a future update and users can expect them to do so at some point.

Microsoft Edge can import browser data from Internet Explorer so that it's never lost.

This includes browsing history and any other stored information in the browser - all of which can be accessed in the settings area of Microsoft Edge.

What should you do now that IE has retired?

Remove the Browser

It is dangerous to continue using outdated technology that is incompatible with your system. Cybercriminals love exploiting outdated tools without security updates, leaving open the door for malicious hackers to infiltrate into your network. Unfortunately, manufacturers will likely never address these issues since they have retired the software.

Companies with outdated technology are 47% more likely to experience data breaches than those with modern tools, according to research. Companies using more up-to-date equipment have an overall lower risk of experiencing breaches.

Your stored data should be transferred to Microsoft Edge (or another trusted browser). After that, uninstall IE from your device.

Businesses should ensure employees are informed about Edge's IE Mode

Companies want to avoid the same fate as many Japanese organizations, where many corporate and government users were unprepared for IE's retirement.

IT and engineering departments reported receiving many requests for help due to unpreparedness on the browser end, even though warnings had been given. Customers of financial institutions and government agencies were particularly hit hard.

At the last minute, they were left scrambling to find the ideal solution. They needed access to employee attendance management and other online tools.

With Edge's Internet Explorer mode, the transition was not as challenging. Unfortunately, 20% of those affected didn't know what to do without any communication or training.

Communicate your plans to your team. Companies can automate IE Mode so it launches automatically.

Microsoft Edge Features Training for Employees

Microsoft Edge offers several advantages over Internet Explorer and other browsers, such as speedier performance and improved responsiveness. Furthermore, it has robust security measures like password monitoring and breach notification; plus it features unique features like "collections".

However, employees must be able to learn new tools if they wish to utilize them effectively. Be sure you take the necessary time for a smooth transition and have your employees trained on Edge.

Don't fret if your technology fails

We can assist in upgrading it ahead of any deadlines so you stay productive. Contact us now to set up a consultation about technology needs.