How to Enable or Disable Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11

In today’s technology-driven world, compatibility with legacy applications and websites is crucial for businesses and individual users alike. Many organizations still rely on older applications designed for Internet Explorer. To address this need, Microsoft Edge includes an Internet Explorer (IE) mode that allows users to access and use websites or web applications that require Internet Explorer. This feature is especially relevant for Windows 11 users who want the best of both worlds: the modern capabilities of Edge combined with the compatibility of IE.

This article will guide you through the process of enabling and disabling Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge on a Windows 11 device. Along the way, we will explore the requirements to use this feature, its benefits, potential limitations, and a step-by-step guide to get you started.

Understanding Internet Explorer Mode

What is Internet Explorer Mode?

Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge allows users to view and interact with websites as if they were using the Internet Explorer browser. It is not a separate browser but rather a feature within Microsoft Edge that enables compatibility with legacy web applications and environments.

Why Use Internet Explorer Mode?

1. Compatibility: Many businesses use enterprise applications that are only compatible with Internet Explorer. IE mode offers a way to access these applications without needing to switch browsers.

2. Transition: Organizations transitioning from Internet Explorer to a more modern browsing experience can gradually shift their applications and minimize disruptions.

3. Support for Legacy Technologies: Some older web technologies (like ActiveX controls) are supported in IE mode but not in modern browsers.

4. Centralized Management: IT departments can manage browser settings more effectively, ensuring users have the necessary tools to work without encountering compatibility issues.

Prerequisites for Using Internet Explorer Mode

Before you dive in, there are certain prerequisites you should be aware of:

1. Microsoft Edge Version: Ensure you are using a version of Microsoft Edge that supports Internet Explorer mode. Microsoft released this feature in Edge version 87 and later.

2. Windows 11: Internet Explorer mode is designed to work seamlessly with Windows 11; however, you must ensure your operating system is up to date.

3. Admin Rights: If you are part of a managed network, enabling or disabling this feature may require administrator rights or permissions set by your organization.

Enabling Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge

Now that we understand what IE mode entails and why it matters, let’s focus on enabling it in Microsoft Edge, step-by-step.

Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge

Begin by launching Microsoft Edge on your Windows 11 device. You can find Edge pinned to your taskbar or search for it in the Start menu.

Step 2: Access Settings Menu

1. In the top-right corner of the Edge browser, click on the three horizontal dots (the more options button).

2. From the drop-down menu, select “Settings.”

Step 3: Locate Default Browser Settings

1. In the left sidebar, find the "Default browser" section and click on it.

2. Here you will find settings related to browser behaviors, including enabling Internet Explorer mode.

Step 4: Enable Internet Explorer Mode

1. Look for the option labeled “Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode.”

2. Toggle this option to “Allow” to enable IE mode in Microsoft Edge. You might see a prompt to restart the browser to apply the changes.

Step 5: Restart Edge

After toggling the setting, it’s essential to restart Edge. Just close all Edge windows and relaunch the browser.

Step 6: Accessing IE Mode

Once you have enabled IE mode, you can access it by following these steps:

1. Navigate to the website that you want to open in Internet Explorer mode.

2. Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner again.

3. From the drop-down menu, select “Reload in Internet Explorer mode.” The page will refresh and display the content in IE mode.

4. If you frequently access the same site in IE mode, you’ll see an option that allows you to “Always allow this site to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode.” Once checked, you can bypass this process next time.

Step 7: Configuring IE Mode for Specific Sites

You can also configure Edge to automatically load specific websites in IE mode. This is especially useful for businesses with internal applications.

Using Group Policy

If you are managing multiple devices in an enterprise environment, consider using Group Policy to automate IE mode settings across all Edge installations.

1. Download and import the Microsoft Edge policy files.

2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Microsoft Edge in the Group Policy Editor.

3. Find the settings under "Configure Internet Explorer integration" and "Configure sites that should open in Internet Explorer mode."

4. Specify the URLs that should always open in IE mode.

Using the Edge Management Console

For organizations utilizing Microsoft Endpoint Manager, you can manage these settings directly from the management console, allowing for streamlined updates across all devices.

Disabling Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge

If you find that you no longer require Internet Explorer mode, it’s easy to disable it. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Open Settings in Microsoft Edge

Just as before, open Microsoft Edge and click on the three dots in the top-right corner to go to the “Settings.”

Step 2: Navigate to Default Browser Section

Select the "Default browser" option from the left sidebar.

Step 3: Disable IE Mode

In the Default browser options, find the "Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode" setting. Toggle this option to “Don’t allow” to disable IE mode.

Step 4: Restart Edge

Again, restart your Edge browser to apply the changes.

Step 5: Verify Settings

Ensure that the IE mode feature is now disabled by attempting to access a website and confirming that the "Reload in Internet Explorer mode" option is no longer available in the menu.

Troubleshooting Internet Explorer Mode Issues

While enabling or disabling IE mode is generally straightforward, you may encounter some issues. Below are common troubleshooting tips:

1. Check for Browser Updates: Make sure your Microsoft Edge is up to date, as new features and bug fixes are periodically released.

2. Administrator Permissions: If you are in a managed environment and find that you cannot change settings, contact your IT administrator for assistance.

3. Compatibility View Settings: Some sites may not behave as expected in IE mode. Check compatibility view settings or consider if the legacy application may require additional configurations.

4. Network Permissions: If you are accessing corporate websites, ensure that your network settings allow usage of IE mode.

5. Clear Cache and Cookies: Sometimes, outdated browser cache can cause issues. Clearing your cache may help in troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Enabling or disabling Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 is a valuable feature that allows for the continuation of legacy web applications in a modern browsing environment. With its ease of use and compatibility benefits, IE mode offers a perfect solution for businesses and users who need to access older sites while enjoying the speed and security of Edge.

By following the outlined steps, you can manage your web browsing experience effectively, ensuring that you have access to all necessary tools for your work or personal use. As technology continues to evolve, understanding how to adapt and utilize these features will remain essential for staying productive and efficient in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

With Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge, you can confidently navigate the complexities of both modern and legacy web environments, ensuring that your needs are met and any challenges overcome.