On February 14, an update to Microsoft Edge will permanently disable the desktop version of the company’s long-retired browser, Internet Explorer 11 (IE11), on most versions of Windows 10. updated FAQ, The change, Microsoft says, will not be reversible, and any calls to IE11 will be redirected to Microsoft Edge, which includes IE Mode.
There are a few exceptions. The FAQ says that the IE 11 desktop application remains in support on these products:
- Windows 8.1 (Note: Microsoft Edge will be version 109 last supported version on windows 8.1
- Windows 7 Extended Security Updates (ESU) (Note: Microsoft Edge version 109 will be last supported version on Windows 7)
- Windows Server Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) (all editions)
- Windows 10 IoT Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) (all editions)
- Windows Server 2022
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021
- Windows Server LTSC (all versions)
- Windows 10 Client LTSC (all versions)
- windows 10 china government edition
In addition, Internet Explorer Mode will continue to be supported in Microsoft Edge and the Internet Explorer platform (MSHTML/Trident), including WebOCs and COM automation.
What Microsoft refers to as “IE11 visual references”, such as icons on the Start menu and taskbar, will be removed in the June 2023 Windows Security Update. However, the company warns users not to uninstall IE11, as its functionality is required for Microsoft Edge IE Mode.
The FAQ warns, “If your organization still has a dependency on IE11, you should take steps now to complete your transition before February 14, 2023, or when users lose access to IE11 dependent applications.” There is a risk of business disruption at scale.”
And, it adds, “If your organization has legacy browser dependencies, you will need to set up IE mode in Microsoft Edge before upgrading to Windows 11 to avoid business disruption.
It advises companies that need help transitioning to either open a support ticket For assistance with technical issues, or to request help from Microsoft App Assure Team For app compatibility issues.
