During the era of Windows 10, users had access to three browsers: Internet Explorer, the legacy version of Edge, and the Chromium-based Edge. These three browsers reflected Microsoft's uncertain position in the browser market. However, now that Internet Explorer is on its way to permanent retirement, it will no longer be included in Windows 11.
Microsoft has announced that Internet Explorer will be disabled in Windows 11. Initially, there were concerns that we would still encounter the browser in Windows 11 until mid-2022—specifically June 15, 2022, when Internet Explorer's retirement is scheduled. However, there will be no trace of the browser in the new operating system from Redmond.
A Microsoft spokesperson told The Verge that the Internet Explorer desktop application will not be available in Windows 11:
"The MSHTML engine will remain as part of the Windows 11 operating system to support IE mode in Microsoft Edge."
While we didn't expect Microsoft to include Internet Explorer in Windows 11 given its end of support, the company had previously warned that the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) of Windows 10 would still include Internet Explorer next year. However, Microsoft now plans to completely phase out the browser from Windows 11, and even if you use shortcuts related to Internet Explorer, you will be redirected to Microsoft Edge.
This marks the first time in over 20 years that a new version of Windows will be released without Internet Explorer. The first version of Windows to include Internet Explorer was Windows 95 OEM Service Release 2.5, released in 1997.
Although Internet Explorer once dominated the browser market, Chrome and Firefox have since changed the landscape. In response, Microsoft introduced Edge, but it also struggled to capture much user attention. Then came the Chromium-based Edge, with new features. It is expected that Microsoft will regain a significant market share with this browser, as long as it continues to provide regular updates and new features, ensuring it stays competitive with its rivals.
