Keeping Up with the Times: A Comprehensive Guide to Updating Internet Explorer

While Microsoft Edge has largely replaced Internet Explorer (IE) as the default browser for Windows, many users, particularly those in enterprise environments or those relying on legacy applications, still find themselves needing to use IE. Keeping your version of Internet Explorer updated is crucial for security, compatibility, and overall performance. Outdated browsers are prime targets for malware and can lack the features needed to properly display modern websites. This guide will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of how to update Internet Explorer, covering various scenarios and troubleshooting tips.

Why Update Internet Explorer?

Before diving into the update process, let’s understand why updating Internet Explorer is so important:

• Security: Older versions of Internet Explorer are riddled with known security vulnerabilities. Hackers actively exploit these weaknesses to install malware, steal data, and compromise your system. Updates contain security patches that close these loopholes, protecting you from these threats.
• Compatibility: Modern websites utilize the latest web technologies. Older versions of IE often lack the necessary rendering engines to display these websites correctly. Updating IE helps ensure that websites are displayed as intended, reducing the chance of layout errors or broken functionality.
• Performance: Newer versions of IE include performance improvements, leading to faster page loading and a more responsive browsing experience. These updates often include optimizations that make the browser more efficient.
• Access to New Features: Although Internet Explorer is no longer actively developed by Microsoft, it may still receive crucial updates. These updates could include minor improvements or adjustments that contribute to the user experience.

Is Internet Explorer Still Relevant?

While Microsoft has encouraged users to move to Edge, Internet Explorer is still included in certain versions of Windows. For instance, IE mode in Microsoft Edge allows compatibility with legacy applications, which means that in some cases IE is actually being used *through* the Edge browser, making its security and functionality still pertinent. Furthermore, some specific enterprise systems or older web applications may be designed to work exclusively with Internet Explorer. In such scenarios, maintaining IE with updates is critical for these legacy environments to work correctly and securely. However, for the general consumer, it is recommended to use Microsoft Edge.

Understanding Internet Explorer Updates

Internet Explorer updates are usually delivered through Windows Updates. This means that updating IE is often bundled with other updates for your operating system. Therefore, to update IE, you primarily focus on ensuring your Windows operating system is up to date. However, there can be cases where you may need to manually check or troubleshoot the process, and that is what this article will delve into in more depth.

Steps to Update Internet Explorer

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step instructions for updating Internet Explorer.

Method 1: Using Windows Update

This is the most common and recommended method for updating Internet Explorer. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Settings App:
   • Click on the Start button (Windows logo) in the bottom left corner of your screen.
   • Click on the Settings icon (gear icon) in the Start menu.
2. Navigate to Update & Security:
   • In the Settings window, click on the “Update & Security” option.
3. Check for Updates:
   • In the Update & Security window, ensure you are on the “Windows Update” tab on the left-hand side.
   • Click on the “Check for updates” button. Windows will then scan for available updates.
4. Install Updates:
   • If updates are found, they will typically download and install automatically.
   • If a restart is required, you will be prompted to do so. Ensure you save all your work before restarting your computer.
5. Verify the Update:
   • After the update is installed, you should verify the version of Internet Explorer you are now using. Open internet explorer and click on the cogwheel in the upper-right hand corner. Select “About Internet Explorer.” In the box that pops up, check what the version number is. Then go online and do a search for “Latest Version of Internet Explorer.” If the version numbers match or the version number on your PC is the closest available, then your Internet Explorer has been updated.

Important Note: The process may vary slightly depending on the version of Windows you are using, but the general steps should remain largely the same.

Method 2: Manual Download (Rare Cases)

In rare circumstances, you might need to download and install an Internet Explorer update manually. This is usually only necessary if the automatic update process fails or you have a very specific need. Note that Microsoft usually discourages manually downloading updates for security reasons. Generally you should be receiving all your updates automatically.

1. Identify Your Windows Version:
   • Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
   • Type winver and press Enter.
   • A window will appear displaying your Windows version (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 8.1, etc.) and build number. Note this down.
2. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog:
   • Open your browser and search for “Microsoft Update Catalog” or navigate directly to the site via your browser, usually located at https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com.
3. Search for the Specific Update:
   • In the search bar on the Microsoft Update Catalog website, type in “Internet Explorer” followed by your Windows version (e.g., “Internet Explorer for Windows 10”). You may also need to add the architecture type of your operating system, such as “x64” or “x86”.
   • Browse the results, making sure that the version matches the one on your operating system. Look for a specific update or a Cumulative Update. Be careful to download the proper update for your system.
4. Download the Update:
   • Click on the “Download” button next to the relevant update.
   • A download window will appear. Download the corresponding update package file to a directory on your computer.
5. Install the Update:
   • Locate the downloaded update package file and double click on it.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update. This may involve accepting a user agreement and clicking on “Next” several times.
   • You may be required to restart your computer after the installation has finished.
6. Verify the Update (Same as above):
   • After the update is installed, you should verify the version of Internet Explorer you are now using. Open internet explorer and click on the cogwheel in the upper-right hand corner. Select “About Internet Explorer.” In the box that pops up, check what the version number is. Then go online and do a search for “Latest Version of Internet Explorer.” If the version numbers match or the version number on your PC is the closest available, then your Internet Explorer has been updated.

Warning: Only use this method if you are comfortable with manually installing Windows updates. In the vast majority of cases, the Windows update method will be sufficient, and is highly recommended.

Troubleshooting Common Update Issues

Sometimes, updating Internet Explorer can be problematic. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

• Updates Fail to Install:
  • Check Your Internet Connection: Make sure your computer has a stable and active internet connection.
  • Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches that prevent updates from installing.
  • Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter:
    • Open the Settings app, as previously shown in Step 1.
    • Go to “Update & Security.”
    • Click on “Troubleshoot” in the left-hand menu.
    • Select “Windows Update” and click on “Run the troubleshooter”.
    • Follow the prompts to identify and repair any issues with Windows Update.
  • Free Up Disk Space: Ensure that you have sufficient space on your computer’s hard drive to download and install updates.
  • Disable Antivirus Temporarily: Sometimes, antivirus software can interfere with the update process. Try disabling your antivirus temporarily during the update process and see if the update can be downloaded and installed. Remember to turn your antivirus program back on as soon as the update has finished.
• Updates Appear to Be Stuck:
  • Wait Patiently: Sometimes updates can take a while to download and install, particularly large ones. Give the process sufficient time.
  • Restart Your Computer: Restarting your computer can help to dislodge a stuck update process.
  • Run the System File Checker: The System File Checker can help find and repair damaged system files that might be causing the update to get stuck. Open a Command Prompt as administrator (search for “cmd” in the search bar, right-click, select “run as administrator”) and type in sfc /scannow. Press Enter and wait until it finishes scanning and repairing.
• Incompatible Software:
  • Uninstall conflicting software: If the update issue still persists after trying all the other troubleshooting steps, there may be a software conflict. Try uninstalling any recently installed software and try the update again.
• Error Codes:
  • If you encounter specific error codes during the update process, search for them online. Microsoft has a robust knowledge base with solutions for common update errors.

After the Update: Keeping Internet Explorer in Check

Once you’ve successfully updated Internet Explorer, here are some tips to keep it performing smoothly:

• Regularly Check for Windows Updates: Set up Windows Updates to automatically download and install updates. This will ensure that your system and Internet Explorer are always up-to-date with the latest security patches and improvements.
• Clear Browsing History and Cache: Regularly clear your browsing history, cookies, and cached files. This can help improve the speed and performance of Internet Explorer. To do this, press Ctrl + Shift + Delete when Internet Explorer is open. Select the items you would like to delete, then click “Delete”.
• Manage Add-ons: Remove or disable any unnecessary browser add-ons that you do not use, or are no longer supported. These add-ons can slow down your browser and potentially cause instability. You can find add-ons under “Manage Add-ons” in the Internet Explorer settings menu, accessible by clicking on the cogwheel in the upper right-hand corner.
• Consider Microsoft Edge: If you are not using Internet Explorer because of legacy application, consider transitioning to Microsoft Edge. Edge is the new default browser from Microsoft, is actively supported and has better security, performance, and compatibility than Internet Explorer.

Conclusion

Keeping Internet Explorer updated is a vital aspect of maintaining your computer’s security and performance. Whether you use Windows Update or opt for a manual download in rare situations, the process is straightforward, but can sometimes require a bit of troubleshooting. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your Internet Explorer version is the latest available, enabling safer and more efficient web browsing. Remember to prioritize security, performance, and compatibility by always running up to date software. However, in most cases, you should be using Microsoft Edge, or another modern browser that has up to date security and features, instead of relying on Internet Explorer.