How To Install Internet Explorer On Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Edgar Nicov

How-To

4 min. read

Published on October 29, 2025

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Internet Explorer, a browser that once dominated the internet landscape, might seem like a relic in the age of modern browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. However, there are still valid reasons why you might need or want to install Internet Explorer on Windows 11. Whether it’s for compatibility with legacy websites, specific web applications, or simply nostalgic preferences, this guide will walk you through the process.

While Windows 11 doesn’t include Internet Explorer by default, it does include a built-in Internet Explorer mode within Microsoft Edge. This mode allows you to access websites that require Internet Explorer without needing to install the full application. However, if you still prefer to have the standalone Internet Explorer application, there are methods to enable it, which we’ll cover in this comprehensive guide.

How Do I Get Internet Explorer on Windows 11?

Enabling Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge

This is the recommended approach for most users, as it provides compatibility without the security risks of running an outdated browser.

Open Microsoft Edge. You can find it in your Start Menu or Taskbar.
Navigate to Settings. Click the three dots in the top right corner of the Edge window, then select “Settings.”
Go to Default Browser. In the left-hand menu, click on “Default browser.”
Enable “Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode”. Toggle the switch to “Allow.”
Restart Microsoft Edge. This is required for the changes to take effect.
Reload a Site in IE Mode. If a website requires Internet Explorer, click the three dots in the top right corner, then select “Reload in Internet Explorer mode.”

Using the “Internet Explorer (IE) Mode Pages” setting

Open Microsoft Edge. Again, find it in your Start Menu or Taskbar.
Navigate to Settings. Click the three dots in the top right corner of the Edge window, then select “Settings.”
Go to Default Browser. In the left-hand menu, click on “Default browser.”
Add the specific URL in the “Internet Explorer (IE) Mode Pages” section.
Click the “Add” button to confirm.

Accessing Internet Explorer Through Optional Features (Less Common)

While less reliable, some users have reported success with this method.

Open Settings. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
Go to Apps. Click on “Apps” in the left-hand menu.
Click on “Optional features”.
Click “View Features” next to “Add an optional feature”.
Search for “Internet Explorer”. If it appears, select it and click “Install”. Note: It’s unlikely to be present.

Important Considerations

Security Risks: Running a standalone version of Internet Explorer is highly discouraged due to significant security vulnerabilities. Microsoft no longer supports it, meaning it won’t receive security updates.
Compatibility: IE mode in Edge is designed to provide the necessary compatibility for legacy websites without exposing you to the risks of running the full application.

Tips

Always prioritize using IE mode in Edge over attempting to install a standalone version of Internet Explorer.
Keep Microsoft Edge updated to ensure you have the latest security patches and compatibility features.
If you encounter issues with IE mode, try clearing your browser cache and cookies.
Consider contacting the website owner if a site requires Internet Explorer, as they may need to update their site for modern browsers.

Let’s quickly compare the two main methods discussed:

Feature	Internet Explorer Mode (Edge)	Standalone Internet Explorer
Security	High (Receives Edge Updates)	Very Low (No Updates)
Compatibility	Excellent	Good
Ease of Use	Very Easy	More Complex
Recommendation	Highly Recommended	Not Recommended

Accessing Legacy Websites on Windows 11

By leveraging Internet Explorer mode within Microsoft Edge, you can seamlessly access older websites and web applications that might not be fully compatible with modern browsers, all while maintaining a secure browsing experience.