Internet Explorer has been phasing out for the last five years and Microsoft is now launching its newest version of ‘open-source browsing’ Microsoft Edge.
The Beginning of the End
Consumers have been using Internet Explorer 11 since 2013, when browsing experiences were far less advanced and accommodating. As browsers progressed, open-source standards have risen to new heights and set the standard for innovative web browsing. Consumer and commercial users subscribed to Microsoft 365 are likely motivated to switch because Microsoft Edge is offering a more responsive browser. Also, providing an array of features and toolsets for Outlook, Teams, and SharePoint.
Out with the Old
Microsoft Edge was introduced over five years ago and deemed ‘Project Spartan’ this project initially started the phase out of Internet Explorer. Since this introduction Microsoft has been urging customers to switch their applications over to Microsoft Edge – ‘legacy mode’. It will continue to let businesses access old sites that were specifically built for Internet Explorer, until Microsoft fully drops support for Internet Explorer 11 within Windows 10. Microsoft dropped support for the existing legacy version of Microsoft Edge on March 9th, 2021. At that time, the legacy version stopped receiving security updates. Microsoft has been consistently moving its customers from Windows 10 over to the new Chromium-based Edge browser. Soon, Microsoft will include the new Edge browser to new devices and Windows feature updates.
TimeLine Snapshot:
- November 30, 2020 – Microsoft Teams web app stopped supporting IE 11.
- March 9, 2021 – Microsoft dropped security support for the legacy version of Edge.
- August 17, 2021 – the remaining Microsoft 365 apps and services will no longer support IE 11.
Making the Switch
As more consumers are working from home, migrating over to new the Microsoft Edge will address Microsoft management, security and productivity tools, while providing compatibility. Microsoft also provides SmartScreen built-in and has the highest rated phishing and malware protection. Microsoft will also assist with app and site compatibility, if and when, consumers are motivated to switch over to the newest Microsoft Edge. Have questions about Microsoft 365 products or features? If so, contact Xantrion, we’re here to help.