Microsoft has stopped supporting Internet Explorer, but you can still use it in Windows 11

Internet Explorer was removed from Windows computers in 2022, replaced by Microsoft Edge . While Edge is far superior, Internet Explorer still comes pre-installed on Windows 11 — and it's incredibly easy to access.

How to Access Internet Explorer Easily on Windows 11

Accessing Internet Explorer (IE) on Windows 11 is extremely easy and there are a few ways to do it.

1. Create a shortcut to Internet Explorer

The easiest method is to create a shortcut that targets the location of Internet Explorer.

• On the desktop or in a file folder, right-click and select New > Shortcut .
• The Create Shortcut window will open.
• Now, paste the following content into the text field:

%systemroot%\System32\conhost.exe powershell.exe -noprofile -executionpolicy bypass -windowstyle hidden -command "(new-object -com internetexplorer.application).visible=$true"

• In the next window, give the shortcut a name, such as IE or Internet Explorer .
• Close the Create Shortcut wizard.

Now you can double-click the created shortcut and Internet Explorer will open.

2. Internet Options

The second way to access Internet Explorer is through Windows 11's Internet Options, accessed through the Control Panel.

• Type Control Panel into the search bar in the Start menu and select the best match.
• Once Control Panel is open, go to Network and Internet > Internet Options .
• Now, open the Programs tab and select Manage add-ons .
• Right at the bottom of the new window that opens, select Learn more about toolbars and extensions .

Internet Explorer will open immediately.

Why Can You Still Use Internet Explorer in Windows 11?

Now, you're probably wondering why Internet Explorer is hiding in Windows 11. It's not just nostalgia; there are some practical reasons why IE is still around.

First, many businesses still rely on legacy web applications, internal portals, or custom tools designed for IE’s rendering engine (Trident). Removing IE completely would immediately disrupt those workflows. Additionally, some legacy Windows software uses embedded web views and other IE settings. Without core Internet Explorer files, some functionality would be broken.

Microsoft Edge's Internet Explorer mode also depends on certain files installed with the legacy browser. Internet Explorer mode allows you to view websites in the legacy mode and access them through Edge. But without these files, you won't be able to turn on Internet Explorer mode.

In short, Internet Explorer is worth a look, and even important for developers and enterprise organizations. But for most people, modern browsers are designed for the web we know and use today.

But Internet Explorer is a thing of the past. In 2025, it's best left as a tool for testing legacy apps—not as an everyday Internet browser.