What Internet Explorer’s Retirement Means for You

There was no big retirement party; no one got a watch or engraved memorabilia. Yet Microsoft retired Internet Explorer on June 15, 2022. It was a long time coming, but you still may not be prepared for what that decision means for you.

Internet Explorer has been one of the prominent web browsers of users globally since it’s introduction in 1995.  Millions used the default Microsoft program to guide their web browsing. But as the times changed and technology advanced, Microsoft began to agree with the majority of users that Internet Explorer was showing its age when it released the statement “The web has evolved and so have browsers. Incremental improvements to Internet Explorer couldn’t match the general improvements to the Web at large.”

Expect on launch that Internet Explorer will prompt you to make the switch to Microsoft Edge. Thoughtfully the browsers have included the common ability to import passwords, favorites, history and other data from Explorer to Edge.

Some businesses should be wary of these changes, as older programs built around Internet Explorer will need to be updated in order to maintain their ability to function come the switch.

Alternatively, there are many other browsers that have found popularity over the years including Google Chrome, Safari and Firefox.

 Why you can’t keep using Internet Explorer

When software is retired or reaches the end of its life, the manufacturer no longer provides updates or support for that program. That means if you continue to rely on Internet Explorer, you could put yourself at risk.

As Internet Explorer is “out of support,” Microsoft is no longer securing the browser. If there are vulnerabilities, there will be no patches released. If there are bugs, there will be no updates.

You could also experience conflicts with your computer hardware or software. Internet Explorer is outdated, and Microsoft knows it. Trying to keep it could mean a reduced user experience.

What’s the next step?

Internet Explorer will be permanently disabled in the future. When that happens, you’ll no longer even see the Internet Explorer icon on your desktop or other devices.

Still, you don’t want to wait that long to move to another browser solution. Security risks will continue to grow and you will face complications from incompatible coding and plug ins on websites.

If you want to transition your browser or decide on the best software to suit your needs, try our IT experts. We’re here to help