Internet Explorer, formerly known as Microsoft Internet Explorer, was once the most widely used web browser worldwide. However, with the introduction of newer and more advanced browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer has seen a decline in popularity over the years. If you are still using Internet Explorer and looking to remove it from your system, this article will guide you with a step-by-step process.
Why Remove Internet Explorer?
There are several reasons why users may choose to remove Internet Explorer from their system. Firstly, Internet Explorer has been criticized for being slower and less secure compared to other modern browsers. Secondly, many websites and web applications no longer support Internet Explorer due to its limited compatibility with contemporary web standards. Lastly, removing Internet Explorer can free up valuable disk space on your .
Before you Start:
Before proceeding with the removal process, it is important to note that Internet Explorer is an essential component of the Windows operating system. Removing it will not be possible, but you can disable or turn off the features related to Internet Explorer. Additionally, it would be best if you acknowledged that Microsoft may periodically release security updates or bug fixes for Internet Explorer, which you will be missing out on by removing it.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
To start the removal process, first, open the Control Panel on your Windows computer. You can do this by searching for “Control Panel” in the Windows search bar or by pressing the Windows key + X and selecting “Control Panel.”
Step 2: Open Programs and Features
Once you are in the Control Panel, locate the “Programs” or “Programs and Features” option and click on it. This will provide you with a list of all the programs installed on your computer.
Step 3: Turn Windows Features On or Off
In the Programs and Features window, look for the option “Turn Windows features on or off” usually located on the left-hand side of the window. Click on it to proceed.
Step 4: Disable Internet Explorer Features
After clicking on “Turn Windows features on or off,” a new window will appear, displaying a list of features related to Internet Explorer. Locate the entry for “Internet Explorer” and uncheck the box next to it to disable it.
Note: You may also see options for other Internet Explorer-related features like “Internet Explorer Developer Tools” or “Internet Explorer Hosted Web Browser.” Unchecking these will ensure that Internet Explorer is effectively disabled.
Step 5: Apply the Changes
Once you have unchecked the box next to “Internet Explorer,” click on the “OK” button to apply the changes. Your computer will then configure the changes, which may take a few minutes.
Step 6: Restart Your Computer
After the configuration process is complete, you will need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect. It is essential to save any ongoing work and close any open programs before proceeding with the restart.
Step 7: Confirm Internet Explorer Removal
Once your computer has restarted, check whether Internet Explorer has been successfully disabled. To do this, open any other web browser installed on your system, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, and ensure the default browser settings reflect the change.
In conclusion, removing Internet Explorer from your system can help improve your browsing experience, ensure compatibility with modern websites and web applications, and free up disk space. While it is not possible to completely uninstall Internet Explorer, disabling its features within the Windows operating system is a viable option. By following the step-by-step guide provided above, you can easily remove or disable Internet Explorer from your computer and enjoy the benefits of more advanced and secure web browsers.