The Internet Explorer, the most iconic web browser, is now officially dead. Microsoft has already confirmed that it will end its support for IE11.  

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A view of the new Microsoft Surface Laptop following a Microsoft launch event, May 2, 2017 in New York City. The Windows 10 S operating system is geared toward the education market and is Microsoft's answer to Google's Chrome OS.

This means the popular web browser will no longer receive new security patches and other essential updates. But, the software giant said that some users can still access Internet Explorer. 

But, there's one big problem. If ever your device is infected by malware or other computer viruses installed through Internet Explorer, then Microsoft will no longer help you solve the problem. 

"After 25+ years of helping people use and experience the web, Internet Explorer (IE) is officially retired and out of support as of today, June 15, 2022," said Microsoft via its official blog post. 

Since IE is still accessible to other users, this means that it is really not completely dead. 

Is Internet Explorer Not Completely Dead?

According to PCWorld's latest report, the discontinuation of Internet Explorer may not affect many consumers at all, especially since the majority of the users in the U.S. have Windows PCs that are not reliant on IE. 

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Xbox Live executive Marc Whitten introduces Internet Explorer for Xbox during the Microsoft Xbox press conference at the Electronic Entertainment Expo at the Galen Center on June 4, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. Thousands are expected to attend the annual three-day convention to see the latest games and announcements from the gaming industry.

Also Read: Microsoft Edge Adds Internet Explorer Mode in Time for its Retirement-But Why

Statcounter's study shared this detail. Although this is the case, some individuals may still be disappointed since IE is their last resort if ever their other web browsers fail to work. 

But, if you are still able to use PCs that have older Windows systems, then you can still access Internet Explorer. Microsoft confirmed that Windows 8.1 and Windows 7's Extended Security Updates for business still have the popular web browser tool. 

However, the tech giant manufacturer explained that these older Windows versions would also be affected by the IE discontinuation in the future.  

IE's Retirement in Two Phases

Microsoft explained that Internet Explorer would undergo two phases before it is completely retired. First, computers that have it will be progressively redirected to Microsoft's built-in browser (Microsoft Edge). 

The second phase will permanently disable your device's IE once you are successfully transferred to the Microsoft Edge web browser. As of writing, the tech giant firm hasn't confirmed when will the second phase be completed. 

Recently, Microsoft Windows 11's File Explorer brought the latest tabs feature. 

On the other hand, Microsoft Teams' AI integration aims to enhance the video conferencing experiences of users. 

For more news updates about the retired Internet Explorer and other products of Microsoft, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes. 

Related Article: Microsoft Ends Internet Explorer Support on June 15! But It's Still Available on These Windows Versions

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Written by: Griffin Davis