What will happen if I delete Internet Explorer?
Deleting Internet Explorer (IE) from your computer can have several implications, both positive and negative. Internet Explorer, once the dominant web browser, has been surpassed by modern alternatives like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. However, before you take the plunge and remove IE from your system, it’s essential to understand the potential consequences.
1. Loss of Legacy Functionality
One of the primary reasons to delete Internet Explorer is its outdated technology. With the release of Windows 10, Microsoft has officially retired Internet Explorer in favor of Microsoft Edge. Deleting IE means you’ll lose access to certain legacy features and functionalities that might be crucial for your work or personal use. For instance, some websites and applications are specifically designed to work with Internet Explorer, and removing it could disrupt your experience.
2. Incompatibility Issues
As mentioned earlier, some websites and applications are optimized for Internet Explorer. If you delete the browser, you may encounter compatibility issues when trying to access these sites. This could lead to a frustrating experience, as you might have to switch back to IE to access essential services or perform specific tasks.
3. Security Risks
Internet Explorer has been notorious for its security vulnerabilities over the years. By deleting the browser, you’re effectively removing a potential security threat from your system. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you have a reliable and up-to-date alternative browser installed to maintain your online safety.
4. System Stability
Deleting Internet Explorer might not have a significant impact on your system’s stability. However, it’s essential to consider the possibility of system conflicts, especially if you have legacy applications that rely on IE’s ActiveX controls. In such cases, removing IE could lead to unexpected errors or crashes.
5. Loss of Support
As Microsoft has officially retired Internet Explorer, you’ll no longer receive updates, security patches, or technical support for the browser. This means that any new vulnerabilities discovered in IE will remain unaddressed, putting your system at risk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, deleting Internet Explorer can have various implications, ranging from the loss of legacy functionality and compatibility issues to improved security and system stability. Before making the decision to remove IE from your computer, weigh the pros and cons and ensure you have a suitable alternative browser installed. If you’re using IE for specific purposes, it might be worth keeping it for the time being.
