Definition
Internet Explorer, often abbreviated as IE, is a web browser developed by Microsoft. It was initially released in 1995 and was included as part of the Microsoft Windows line of operating systems. However, it was replaced by Microsoft Edge as the default browser for Windows in 2015.
Phonetic
ɪn.tər.net ɪkˈsplɔːrər
Key Takeaways
Three Main Takeaways about Internet Explorer:
- Internet Explorer was one of the most widely used web browsers, being developed by Microsoft.
- As of 2021, Microsoft has discontinued Internet Explorer in favor of its more modern web browser, Microsoft Edge.
- The browser was known for its security vulnerabilities and issues, making it less popular in later years.
Importance
Internet Explorer, a product of Microsoft Corporation, is a significant term in technology as it represents one of the earliest web browsers to gain global usage, vastly influencing the way people access the internet. Its importance stems from the fact that it was instrumental in the evolution of the World Wide Web, providing the means for users to navigate and interact with web content in a graphical interface. The software also pioneered various technologies, such as ActiveX controls and JavaScript support, that have become cornerstones of modern web development. Despite being succeeded by other browsers in popularity and usage, its legacy resides in its contributions to transitioning the internet from a niche technology into a staple of everyday life.
Explanation
Internet Explorer, often abbreviated as IE, is a free-web browser developed by Microsoft Corporation. Its primary purpose is to retrieve and display content from web servers or files on a network to user’s device. These could come in various forms such as websites, images or videos. This means, like any other web browsers, it serves as the user’s gateway to the internet, enabling them to access and explore all forms of information and media available online.Moreover, Internet Explorer enables web content interaction, including filling out online forms and user authentication. It also allows bookmarking favorite websites and offering facilities for saving and retrieving passwords. An additional feature provided by Internet Explorer is the ability to host web applications (web apps), which are applications that are accessed over a network such as the Internet or an intranet. Thus, Internet Explorer, like other web browsers, is more than just a tool for viewing web pages; it’s a powerful utility for interacting with web content and even hosting applications.
Examples
1. Microsoft Updates: Internet Explorer was primarily used by individuals and businesses to download updates for their Microsoft software. As Microsoft’s default browser, Internet Explorer came pre-installed on Windows computers and was a common tool used by system administrators to download necessary software patches and updates.2. Online Banking: Before the rise of more modern browsers such as Chrome and Firefox, many organizations, such as banks or governmental agencies, designed web pages that were best supported by Internet Explorer. For many individuals, using Internet Explorer was essential for conducting online banking transactions or accessing certain online services.3. Web Design Testing: Even though newer browsers are commonly used now, Web developers and designers often still test their web projects in Internet Explorer. This is to ensure compatibility and functionality for users who still use or are bound to this platform, especially within some corporate structures.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
Q: What is Internet Explorer? A: Internet Explorer is a web browser developed by Microsoft. It was one of the first major web browsers and was the most widely used web browser during the late 1990s and early 2000s.Q: Who developed Internet Explorer? A: Internet Explorer was developed and maintained by Microsoft.Q: What platforms is Internet Explorer compatible with? A: Internet Explorer is compatible with Windows operating system.Q: Is Internet Explorer still supported by Microsoft? A: As of August 17, 2021, Microsoft no longer supports Internet Explorer 11.Q: What has replaced Internet Explorer? A: Microsoft Edge has replaced Internet Explorer as Microsoft’s default web browser.Q: How can I update my Internet Explorer? A: Since support has ended for Internet Explorer, updating is no longer possible. It’s recommended to switch to a different browser like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Firefox.Q: Why does Internet Explorer no longer receive updates? A: Internet Explorer no longer receives updates because Microsoft has shifted its focus to its newer browser, Microsoft Edge.Q: Can I still use Internet Explorer? A: Yes, it’s possible to still use Internet Explorer, but it’s no longer supported by Microsoft, and it may be vulnerable to security risks.Q: What are the alternatives to Internet Explorer? A: Some of the many alternatives to Internet Explorer are Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari for Mac users, and Microsoft Edge.Q: Is Internet Explorer free to use? A: Yes, Internet Explorer is free to use, although it’s no longer supported or updated by Microsoft.
Related Tech Terms
- World Wide Web
- Microsoft
- Browser
- HTML (HyperText Markup Language)
- Internet Protocol
