How to Separate Edge and Internet Explorer
In today’s digital landscape, the browser market is more competitive than ever. Microsoft’s Internet Explorer (IE) and Edge are two of the most widely used web browsers, each with its unique features and user base. However, for many users, separating the two can be beneficial for various reasons. This article will guide you through the process of how to separate Edge and Internet Explorer, ensuring a more organized and efficient browsing experience.
1. Understand the Differences
Before diving into the separation process, it’s essential to understand the differences between Edge and Internet Explorer. Internet Explorer is an older browser that has been around for over two decades, while Edge is a newer, more modern browser designed to offer improved performance, security, and compatibility with modern web standards.
2. Create Separate Shortcuts
One of the simplest ways to separate Edge and Internet Explorer is by creating separate shortcuts on your desktop or taskbar. Here’s how to do it:
– Right-click on your desktop or taskbar.
– Select “New” > “Shortcut.”
– In the “Type the location of the item” field, enter the following paths:
– For Internet Explorer: `C:\Program Files (x86)\Internet Explorer\iexplore.exe`
– For Edge: `C:\Program Files\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe`
– Click “Next,” give the shortcut a name (e.g., “Internet Explorer” or “Edge”), and click “Finish.”
3. Customize the Start Menu
To further differentiate between the two browsers, you can customize the Start menu to show separate entries for Edge and Internet Explorer. Here’s how:
– Right-click on the Start button and select “Settings.”
– Go to “Personalization” > “Start.”
– Scroll down to the “Choose which folders appear on Start” section.
– Click “Edit the list” under “Start layout.”
– Uncheck “Internet Explorer” and check “Edge.”
– Click “OK” to save your changes.
4. Use Different User Profiles
Another method to separate Edge and Internet Explorer is by using different user profiles. This can be particularly useful if you have multiple users on the same computer. Here’s how to set up separate user profiles:
– Go to “Control Panel” > “User Accounts” > “Manage Accounts.”
– Click on the user account you want to separate from the default profile.
– Click “Change the account type” and select “Standard user.”
– Repeat this process for each user account you want to separate.
5. Utilize Browser Extensions
Browser extensions can also help differentiate between Edge and Internet Explorer. Many popular extensions are available for both browsers, but some may only work on one. To ensure you have the best experience, install the necessary extensions for each browser separately.
By following these steps, you can effectively separate Edge and Internet Explorer, providing a more tailored and efficient browsing experience. Whether you’re a casual user or a professional, understanding how to manage these two browsers independently can help streamline your workflow and improve your overall online experience.
