Why Businesses Still Need to Support Internet Explorer in 2025

Although Internet Explorer (IE) was officially retired by Microsoft in 2022, many organizations and businesses still find it necessary to support Internet Explorer. This enduring need stems from legacy systems, compatibility requirements, and certain industries’ reliance on this browser for mission-critical applications.

In this blog, we’ll explore why supporting Internet Explorer remains relevant for businesses and how they can address the challenges it presents.

The Legacy of Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer was once the dominant web browser, with countless organizations building applications tailored specifically for it. Over time, newer browsers like Microsoft Edge, Chrome, and Firefox gained popularity, leading to IE’s gradual decline. However, some enterprises still run legacy systems built during IE’s heyday, making migration to modern browsers a complex and expensive task.

Why Businesses Still Support Internet Explorer

2. 1. Legacy Applications: Many internal tools and applications were created exclusively for IE and may not function correctly on other browsers without costly updates.
4. 2. Government and Industry Requirements: Certain government agencies and industries mandate the use of Internet Explorer due to compliance issues.
6. 3. Customer Accessibility: A fraction of users, particularly in older demographics, may still rely on IE to access services or products.

Strategies for Supporting Internet Explorer

2. 1. Compatibility Layers: Use solutions like IE Mode in Microsoft Edge, which allows businesses to maintain compatibility for legacy websites while gradually transitioning to modern standards.
4. 2. Regular Updates: Keep applications and websites optimized for IE to ensure they perform well and meet user expectations.
6. 3. Plan for Migration: Develop a long-term strategy to move away from IE while maintaining user support during the transition period.

Conclusion

While the world has largely moved on to modern browsers, there are valid reasons why businesses continue to support Internet Explorer. Balancing legacy compatibility with innovation is key to maintaining user satisfaction and operational efficiency. Investing in gradual migration strategies will ensure a smoother transition to modern platforms without disrupting business processes.