Internet Explorer

What is Internet Explorer?

Internet Explorer, often abbreviated as IE, is a web browser developed by the Microsoft Corporation. Initially released in 1995 as part of the Plus! pack for Windows 95, the browser quickly became the dominant web browser of the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft began replacing Internet Explorer with Microsoft Edge to better meet the demands of modern web standards.

Internet Explorer was released in numerous versions over the years, with each new version bringing improvements in speed, security, and compatibility with web standards. Despite its widespread adoption, Internet Explorer was frequently criticized, particularly regarding security vulnerabilities and lack of support for newer web technologies. Nonetheless, it remains an important part of internet history and a significant product in Microsoft's software portfolio.

The Company Behind Internet Explorer

Microsoft Corporation, the company behind Internet Explorer, was founded in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. Headquartered in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft has become one of the world's leading technology companies. In addition to Internet Explorer, Microsoft is known for its operating systems, office software, and cloud solutions. Internet Explorer was developed as an integral part of the Windows operating system and was for a long time the most widely used browser worldwide.

Microsoft's decision to replace Internet Explorer with Microsoft Edge reflects the company's commitment to adapting to changing internet usage demands. Edge offers improved performance and security, while Internet Explorer is still used in many enterprises and government agencies that rely on older web applications.

Main Features

Integrated Windows Support

• Seamless integration with the Windows operating system.
• Support for ActiveX controls and VBScript.

Compatibility Mode

• Allows the rendering of older web pages in their original layout.
• Useful for businesses with older web applications.

Security Features

• Integrated phishing protection and SmartScreen filter.
• Options for managing ActiveX controls.

Browser Extensions

• Support for a wide range of add-ons.
• Customizability through toolbars and extensions.

User-Friendliness

Internet Explorer was known for its straightforward user interface, which was particularly intuitive for Windows users. The integration into the Windows ecosystem meant that users could work with the browser with little additional learning time. However, the simplicity also led to IE being seen as less versatile compared to its competitors.

The navigation bar and arrangement of controls were clearly structured, which facilitated handling. Nevertheless, over the years, Internet Explorer faced criticism for its slow speed and lesser support for modern web standards, which affected the user experience compared to modern browsers like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.

Privacy & Security

Over the years, Internet Explorer has received numerous security updates to ensure user protection against threats from the internet. Key security features include the SmartScreen filter, which warns against phishing attacks and malware, and the options for managing ActiveX controls. However, the browser was often criticized for its security vulnerabilities, making it susceptible to attacks.

As Microsoft no longer continues the development of Internet Explorer, security updates are limited, increasing the risk of unpatched vulnerabilities being exploited. From a privacy perspective, it is important to note that Internet Explorer, like other Microsoft products, is subject to US data protection laws. However, Microsoft has repeatedly emphasized that the protection of user data is a high priority.

Pricing & Plans

Free

Internet Explorer is offered as a free component of the Windows operating system. There are no paid versions or premium features, making it attractive to users who do not wish to incur additional expenses.

Pros and Cons

• Free access as part of Windows.
• Wide support for older web technologies.
• Integrated security features like SmartScreen.
• Compatibility mode for older applications.
• Seamless Windows integration.

• Limited support for modern web standards.
• Outdated security architecture.
• Slower performance compared to modern browsers.

Who is Internet Explorer For?

Internet Explorer is particularly suitable for businesses and government agencies that rely on older web applications that only run in IE. Thanks to compatibility mode, the browser can continue to support such applications, making it valuable for these specific use cases.

For everyday internet users, however, Internet Explorer is less suitable, as modern browsers like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox offer a faster and more secure alternative. Users who value current security features and support for modern web technologies should switch to newer browsers.

Conclusion

Internet Explorer was undoubtedly a pioneer among web browsers and significantly shaped the development of the internet in the 1990s and 2000s. Despite its former market dominance, it has been overtaken by more modern browsers over the years. While it remains useful for specialized applications, users who value security and speed should consider alternative browsers.