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

Whether you are looking for compatibility with legacy websites or want to embrace the modern browsing experience, managing Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge is straightforward. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to enable or disable Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge.

Since the retirement of Internet Explorer in June 2022, some users have faced problems with certain old websites. Fortunately, the IE mode in the Edge browser is like a hidden gem for such users. However, before we go into the details of using Edge in IE mode, let’s first understand what Internet Explorer mode is.

What Is Internet Explorer Mode

Internet Explorer mode is a compatibility feature integrated into Microsoft Edge. It allows users to seamlessly access websites initially designed for older Internet Explorer (IE) versions directly within the Microsoft Edge browser.

This functionality proves especially valuable for enterprises and businesses relying on internal websites or applications optimized for older IE versions. As web standards progress and browsers undergo updates, some older websites and applications may encounter functionality issues in modern browsers.

Internet Explorer Mode addresses this challenge by enabling compatibility with Microsoft Edge. Also, with IE mode, businesses can switch to a newer, safer browser while still using their old web tools. It helps smoothly move from old systems to the latest web standards, switching to new technologies without messing up important business stuff.

Also Read: How to fix Microsoft Edge not opening on Windows.

How to Enable or Disable Edge in Internet Explorer (IE) Mode

Here are the easy steps to launch Internet Explorer compatibility mode in the Edge browser.

Step 1: Launch the Microsoft Edge browser. Click on the three dots icon and head to Settings.

Step 2: Go to Default browser and select Allow from the dropdown menu beside Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode (IE mode).

Step 3: Click the Restart button.

Step 4: Head to any website you wish to open in IE mode. Press Alt + F and select ‘Reload in Internet Explorer Mode.’ 

Tip: Toggle on Open this page in Internet Explorer mode next time to ensure it automatically opens up in IE mode for future visits.

To disable Internet Explorer (IE) mode on Microsoft Edge browser, open Microsoft Edge > click the three-dot icon > choose Settings > select Default browser > from the dropdown next to Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode (IE mode), select Default or Don’t Allow > click the restart button.

Also Read: Best features of Microsoft Edge that you should know.

Show or Hide IE Mode Button in Microsoft Edge

Adhere to the steps below to show or hide the Internet Explorer mode button within the Edge browser.

Step 1: Open the Microsoft Edge browser and click the three horizontal dots icon and select Settings.

Step 2: Head to Appearance and scroll down to Select which buttons to show on the toolbar section.

Step 3: Toggle on or off the button next to the Internet Explorer mode (IE mode) button.

To quickly load any webpage into IE mode, you can use this button. Just click the ‘Reload tab in Internet Explorer mode button’ and wait for the page to refresh.

Similarly, press the ‘Exit tab from the Internet Explorer mode button to exit IE mode on any website. Alternatively, click the Leave button below the address bar to quit IE Mode from the Edge browser.

Also Read: How to Stop Internet Explorer From Opening Edge.

Impact of Running Edge in IE Mode

Some of the effects of using Internet Explorer compatibility mode with Microsoft Edge are listed below.

• Compatibility: The primary purpose of IE mode is to ensure compatibility with legacy web applications designed for Internet Explorer. Running Edge in IE mode can help ensure these older applications function as intended.
• Security: IE mode in Edge helps with compatibility but may expose users to the security risks of the outdated Internet Explorer. It’s advised to use modern browsers like Microsoft Edge for better security.
• Performance: Internet Explorer is an older browser with outdated technology and may not perform as well as modern browsers. Running Edge in IE mode could potentially result in slower performance for websites that rely on more advanced web technologies.
• User experience: Regarding user experience, IE mode aims to integrate the compatibility features into the Edge browser seamlessly. Users might not notice a significant difference in the interface when a site is running in IE mode.
• Updates and support: Running Edge in Internet Explorer (IE) Mode, ensuring a seamless and secure browsing experience with the latest features and enhanced stability.

FAQs on Internet Explorer Mode

Is Your Edge Browser Running in Internet Explorer Mode

We hope the steps outlined above have helped you to enable or disable Internet Explorer mode in the Microsoft Edge browser on your Windows device. Let us know your experience with IE mode and what you think of Edge in the comments below.