Once one of the most widely-used web browsers since its establishment in 1995, support for Microsoft Internet Explorer was finally discontinued on 15 June 2022. The end of support for Internet Explorer means that, while it will remain a working browser, security updates will not be provided, resulting in the browser not being protected from any new threats.

Why Has Microsoft Ended Support for Internet Explorer?

Microsoft initially bundled Internet Explorer with Windows OS as its default browser, leaving Window’s global users with no other alternatives. This perceived monopoly resulted in a serious investigation; however, Internet Explorer remained a popular browser until 2002.

Microsoft released 11 versions of Internet Explorer over the years to add functionality. However, eventually, the quality of the product deteriorated significantly enough to plague users with a slow browser speed and the inability to experience modernised websites entering the market. In addition, the increase in experienced hackers resulted in the browser’s weaknesses being exploited, resulting in significant security threats.

Existing Users of Microsoft Internet Explorer

What does the end of Internet Explorer mean for people still using it? Well, even if you no longer use the App, it can be a security risk just by being installed on your device. So to prevent becoming a cyberattack statistic, uninstall the App and install Microsoft Edge, an alternative to Chrome, Firefox and Safari.

What is Microsoft Edge?

Microsoft Edge is a cross-platform web browser initially released with Windows 10 in 2015 and later to Android and iOS platforms in 2017. It is based on Chromium, which is a free and open-sourced software.

What are the Benefits of Using the Microsoft Edge Browser?

• Speed

A leaner Microsoft browser has resulted in a better response time which assists the browser’s page in loading much faster than previously.

• Install Chrome-Compatible Add-Ons

You can install any Chrome-compatible add-ons in Edge because it is built on the same Chromium code used by Google’s browser.

• Android and iOS Support

As a cross-platform web browser, Microsoft Edge is also available for Android and iOS devices, simplifying data synching.

• Easy Microsoft Product Integration

Edge integrates easily with other Microsoft products on both Windows 10 and 11.

• Personalised Content

On start-up, Microsoft Edge shows the My Feed page, which is a selection of information based on your browsing history and personal data. This can easily be customised or, if you prefer, switched off to show another start-up page of your choice.

• Privacy Control

With Microsoft Edge, you can determine your privacy tier by choosing between Basic, Balanced and Strict, with an option to select Exception for sites that need to use tracking cookies.

• Tab Versatility

Tabs help navigate your way around the web and are usually found at the top of the screen. However, Edge allows you to organise them vertically down the left side of your screen or put inactive tabs to sleep – which keeps your browser running smoothly.

Westech is a Silver Microsoft Partner, which means that we have undergone rigorous training and certification to be able to offer the best Microsoft solutions and services to our clients. We also offer a wide range of IT support services across South Africa and Gauteng, including;

• IT support in Cape Town
• IT support in Durban

Contact Westech for friendly, professional, and reliable IT support services.