To change the version of Internet Explorer on your Windows system, you'll essentially be uninstalling the current version (e.g., Internet Explorer 11) and reverting to a previously installed version (if available). Note that Microsoft has largely discontinued support for older versions of Internet Explorer, and using them poses significant security risks. Consider using a modern, supported browser like Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox instead. If you absolutely need an older version for compatibility reasons, here's how you might attempt it:
Important Considerations Before Proceeding:
- Security Risks: Using older versions of Internet Explorer exposes your system to security vulnerabilities.
- Compatibility: Many modern websites will not function correctly or at all on older versions of Internet Explorer.
- End of Life: Microsoft no longer supports older versions of Internet Explorer.
- This process may not work depending on your Windows version and updates installed.
Steps to Attempt Downgrading Internet Explorer:
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Access Programs and Features:
- Go to the Control Panel.
- Click on "Programs."
- Click on "Programs and Features."
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Open Windows Features:
- In the "Programs and Features" window, click on "Turn Windows features on or off."
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Disable Internet Explorer:
- In the "Windows Features" dialog, find "Internet Explorer [Version Number]" (e.g., Internet Explorer 11).
- Uncheck the box next to it.
- A warning message will appear. Click "Yes" to confirm.
- Click "OK" to close the "Windows Features" dialog.
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Uninstall Updates (If Necessary):
- Go back to "Programs and Features."
- Click on "View installed updates" on the left-hand side.
- In the list of installed updates, search for "Internet Explorer [Version Number]."
- Right-click on each "Internet Explorer [Version Number]" update and select "Uninstall."
- Follow the on-screen prompts to uninstall each update. This step may or may not be necessary depending on how your system was updated.
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Restart Your Computer:
- After disabling Internet Explorer and uninstalling any related updates, restart your computer.
What Happens After Restarting:
- If a previous version of Internet Explorer was installed on your system before the upgrade, Windows might revert to that version.
- If no previous version was installed, Internet Explorer might be completely removed.
- In some cases, the steps above might not successfully downgrade Internet Explorer, especially on newer versions of Windows or if specific updates are installed that prevent downgrading.
Alternative: Using Compatibility View or Enterprise Mode Site List:
Instead of downgrading the entire browser, consider using these features if you only need to access a specific website that requires an older browser version.
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Compatibility View: Open Internet Explorer, press Alt to show the menu bar, go to Tools > Compatibility View settings, and add the website to the list.
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Enterprise Mode Site List: This is a more advanced option for organizations that need to ensure compatibility with older websites. It allows you to specify which websites should be rendered using an older engine.
Recommendation:
Due to the security risks and lack of support, downgrading Internet Explorer is generally not recommended. Consider using a modern browser and employing Compatibility View or Enterprise Mode Site List for specific websites that require it. Better yet, see if the website can be updated to work on modern browsers. Using an outdated and unsupported browser is a significant security risk that is best avoided.
