Missing the good old Internet Explorer on your shiny new Windows 11 laptop or PC? You’re not alone! Even though Microsoft has officially retired Internet Explorer in favor of Microsoft Edge, many people still need it for compatibility reasons—especially when dealing with older websites or enterprise tools.
But here’s the catch: Internet Explorer isn’t natively included in Windows 11. Don’t worry! There are still ways to access it—or at least run it in a way that works just like the original.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to get Internet Explorer (or its mode) running on Windows 11 without complicated tricks or unsafe downloads.
Why Internet Explorer is No Longer Available by Default
Before we jump into the steps, let’s understand why Microsoft removed it.
End of Life Announcement
Microsoft officially ended support for Internet Explorer on June 15, 2022, meaning no more security updates or maintenance.
Security Concerns
Older browsers like IE are more vulnerable to cyberattacks and malware.
Introduction of Microsoft Edge
Edge is faster, more secure, and supports both modern and legacy websites using IE Mode.
Can You Really Install Internet Explorer on Windows 11?
Technically, you can’t install Internet Explorer as a standalone browser like in previous versions of Windows. However, you can:
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Enable Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge (the safest and official method).
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Use legacy Internet Explorer via Windows Features (if available).
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Install a virtual machine with Windows 7/8/10 that includes IE (for developers and testers).
Step 1: Enable Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge
The easiest and most recommended way to use Internet Explorer on Windows 11 is through Edge’s built-in IE Mode.
How to Do It:
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Open Microsoft Edge.
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Click the three dots (⋮) menu in the top-right corner.
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Select Settings.
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Go to Default browser from the left sidebar.
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Under Internet Explorer compatibility, enable:
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Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode → Set to Allow.
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Restart Edge.
Now, you can open any site in Internet Explorer mode.
How to Use IE Mode
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Open the website you want.
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Click the three dots again.
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Select Reload in Internet Explorer mode.
Step 2: Access Internet Explorer via Windows Tools (If Available)
Some Windows 11 builds still have a hidden Internet Explorer executable.
How to Check:
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Press Windows Key + S, type Internet Explorer, and press Enter.
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If it appears, right-click and choose Open.
Note: This is rare in newer builds as Microsoft gradually removes the executable.
Step 3: Use the Control Panel Trick
Sometimes, Internet Explorer is hidden but not completely removed.
Steps:
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Press Windows Key + R, type:
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Go to Internet Options.
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Click on Programs tab → Manage add-ons → Check if Internet Explorer is listed.
This won’t install IE fully, but it helps access old settings.
Step 4: Download Internet Explorer from Microsoft’s Legacy Support (For Enterprise Use)
Microsoft provides a special version of Internet Explorer for businesses that still rely on old web applications.
How to Get It:
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Visit Microsoft’s official website for Enterprise Mode.
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Download the package (requires a valid business account).
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Follow the setup instructions.
Step 5: Install a Virtual Machine with Internet Explorer
If you absolutely need the full IE browser for testing or legacy software:
Steps:
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Download VirtualBox or VMware.
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Get a Windows 7/8/10 ISO (with IE included).
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Install the OS in a virtual machine.
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Use Internet Explorer within that environment.
Is It Safe to Use Internet Explorer in 2025?
Honestly, not really.
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Security risks: No updates mean it’s vulnerable.
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Compatibility issues: Modern websites may break.
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Better alternatives: Use Edge, Chrome, or Firefox.
Alternatives to Internet Explorer on Windows 11
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Microsoft Edge (with IE Mode)
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Google Chrome – Fast and modern
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Mozilla Firefox – Privacy-focused
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Brave or Opera – Lightweight and secure
Common Problems When Trying to Install IE on Windows 11
Internet Explorer Not Found
This means your version of Windows 11 has fully removed it.
IE Mode Not Working in Edge
Make sure you enabled it in the Edge settings and restarted your browser.
Old Websites Still Not Opening
Try compatibility mode or use a virtual machine.
Should You Really Install Internet Explorer or Just Use IE Mode?
If you only need IE occasionally, IE Mode in Edge is the best choice. It’s safe, integrated, and officially supported. Full Internet Explorer installation is no longer recommended.
Benefits of Using IE Mode Instead of Installing IE
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Security: Still receives Edge security updates.
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Compatibility: Opens old websites without issues.
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Convenience: No need to install separate software.
How to Make IE Mode Your Default Option
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Open Edge Settings → Default browser.
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Under Internet Explorer compatibility, allow IE mode.
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Add specific websites to open automatically in IE mode.
Final Thoughts
While you can’t directly install Internet Explorer on Windows 11 like the old days, you can still use its functionality through IE Mode in Edge or other workarounds. This ensures compatibility with older websites without compromising your security.
If you’re a casual user, stick with Edge. But if you’re a developer or IT admin, consider a virtual machine for full IE support.
FAQs
1. Can I download Internet Explorer as a standalone app for Windows 11?
No, Microsoft has officially discontinued Internet Explorer. Only IE Mode in Edge is available.
2. Is IE Mode the same as Internet Explorer?
It mimics Internet Explorer’s rendering engine but runs within Edge.
3. Do I need an internet connection to enable IE Mode?
Yes, to download and apply updates if required.
4. Will Microsoft bring Internet Explorer back?
No, Microsoft officially retired it and is pushing Edge as the default.
5. Can I use Internet Explorer for banking sites?
Not recommended—it’s outdated and lacks modern security updates.