The American tech giant Microsoft issued a clear directive about Internet Explorer, urging users to stop relying on the old browser and shift to supported options as soon as possible. The message emphasized that continuing to use Internet Explorer 11 would become increasingly risky because official support has ended or is scheduled to end, which means no more security updates or technical assistance from Microsoft.
In practical terms, this means IE 11, the most recent version of Internet Explorer, no longer receives security patches or fixes. For individuals and businesses, that translates into higher exposure to vulnerabilities, compatibility issues with modern web standards, and a growing burden of maintaining legacy systems that rely on outdated technology. Microsoft has consistently encouraged a proactive transition to safer, faster alternatives to ensure a smooth browsing experience and ongoing protection against online threats.
As a recommended path forward, Microsoft points users toward the Edge browser, especially Edge when operating in Internet Explorer Compatibility Mode. This mode is designed to provide a bridge for organizations that still depend on older enterprise websites or legacy applications, while taking advantage of the modern security features, performance improvements, and daily browsing conveniences offered by Edge. Edge comes pre-installed on newer versions of Windows, including Windows 10 and Windows 11, making the switch straightforward for most users.
For organizations planning their migration, the guidance is straightforward: prepare now rather than waiting for problems to appear later. A practical approach includes inventorying current IE-dependent sites and apps, testing them in Edge with IE mode, and establishing a deprecation timeline that aligns with security and governance objectives. The process often involves configuring group policies, training staff on the new browser experience, and ensuring that critical workflows remain uninterrupted during the transition. By taking these steps, teams can minimize downtime and maintain productivity while benefiting from ongoing support and a modern browsing platform.
Beyond compatibility, the broader shift reflects a commitment to safer computing. Modern browsers offer stronger protections against malware, phishing, and other online threats, along with regular updates that address emerging vulnerabilities. Edge, in particular, provides a streamlined user experience, improved performance, better integration with Windows features, and a robust set of developer tools that help organizations test and deploy new web applications with confidence. For users in Canada and the United States, this represents a reliable, policy-friendly path that reduces risk and keeps digital operations compliant with contemporary security standards.
Another important element of this transition is awareness of how legacy software and antivirus components interact with newer browsers. Keeping operating systems up to date—such as Windows 10 or Windows 11—ensures that built-in security features remain effective against evolving threats. Regular maintenance, including checking for compatibility updates and applying recommended configurations, supports a smoother move away from Internet Explorer while preserving essential workloads that rely on older technologies. In short, the end of IE as a supported product is not just a software change; it is a shift toward a safer, faster, and more capable online environment.
Ultimately, the goal is to empower users to adopt a modern browsing solution that aligns with current web standards and security practices. By transitioning to Edge with IE mode where needed, organizations can maintain access to legacy content while benefiting from ongoing protection, better performance, and a more seamless daily browsing experience. The move is widely viewed as a practical, forward-looking decision that supports both productivity and long-term risk management across households and businesses alike.