From June 15, 2022, IE11 will no longer be supported and will redirect to Microsoft Edge if a user tries to launch it.

The exception is Windows 10 LTSC, or Long-Term Servicing Channel, which provides a stable version for two to three years for those customers who require this.

Windows Server is also unaffected, as is Windows 8.1.

This means users still relying on Internet Explorer need to begin transitioning to Microsoft Edge, or another modern browser, including migrating bookmarks, shortcuts, usernames and passwords. Those using legacy Internet Explorer-based sites and apps will need to configure those sites and apps to open in Microsoft Edge using Internet Explorer mode.

For most consumers, this ought to be no huge deal, but it's a different story for corporations. Internal legacy sites and apps with Internet Explorer dependencies will need to be migrated, and you will need to enquire with your own providers and suppliers about their customer-facing legacy sites and apps you depend on.

Microsoft Edge provides an Internet Explorer compatibility mode and is the only web browser with such built-in backwards compatibility. Microsoft Edge offers two engines, with IE mode and also Chromium for modern sites and apps.

Microsoft confirmed IE mode will be released until 2029 at least and will provide one year’s notice when the time comes to deprecate this feature.

While the desktop browser is not being phased out until June next year, it’s important to note IE11 will be unable to connect to Microsoft 365 apps and services or will provide a degraded experience, from August 17, 2021, so you may wish to commence your transition sooner rather than later.

Other Microsoft products and services are similarly ending support for IE11.

You can view the retirement announcement here: