How to Fix Internet Explorer Disabled from Windows 10

TechMag11 January 2024

8 5 minutes read

How to Fix Internet Explorer Disabled from Windows 10

Internet Explorer (IE) is a web browser that has been in use since the mid-1990s. Despite the availability of several other browsers, many users still prefer to use IE for certain tasks, such as accessing websites that require ActiveX controls. However, in Windows 10, IE may be disabled by default, which can be frustrating for users who rely on it. In this article, we’ll discuss how to fix Internet Explorer disabled from Windows 10 and get it up and running again.

Microsoft intended for the new Edge browser to take the role of Internet Explorer. The business stopped providing updates for the popular browser on June 15, 2022, therefore ending its use. It was however still a part of Windows 10 and usable.

On Windows 10 machines, Internet Explorer 11 was permanently deactivated on February 14, 2023, thanks to a Microsoft Edge update. The deployment typically takes a few days to a week for these improvements.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Internet Explorer is a web browser developed by Microsoft and included in all versions of Windows. It was once the most widely used web browser, but over time, other browsers such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox have gained popularity. In Windows 10, Internet Explorer may be disabled by default, which can be frustrating for users who rely on it. In this article, we’ll discuss how to fix Internet Explorer disabled from Windows 10.

Windows 10 Versions Affected

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The update primarily affects versions of Windows 10 that are distributed via the Semi-Annual Channel, or SAC. They include enterprise multi-session, IoT, and client SKUs. Yet not all Long-Term Servicing Channel versions of Windows 10 were impacted by the update.

Choose Start > Settings > System > About to access system properties if you’re not sure which Windows 10 version you’re looking for. If you are on SAC or LTSC, it should be indicated under OS Name.

You might notice LTSB in certain variations. They are the same because it was LTSC’s previous name.

How Companies Should Respond

There are still some companies who use Internet Explorer 11 as their main browser. Some have already begun utilising Edge in IE 11 mode.

It is advised that businesses start making the switch to the new browser. Internet Explorer 11 no longer receives updates. Hence, there is no benefit to utilising the programme consistently. Microsoft provides an adoption kit filled with information to help inform company personnel about the changes and how to switch to Microsoft Edge.

It is an issue of transferring legacy browser dependencies if Edge is already installed on company systems. To make it possible, configure Internet Explorer mode.

Digital tools are essential to how businesses operate today. It’s crucial to keep in mind that they adapt to the needs of the majority of consumers as they continue to evolve and modernise. When incidents like this occur, businesses should designate personnel to identify any potential holes. Early change detection allows teams to migrate more smoothly and with less disturbance.

Reasons for Internet Explorer being Disabled

There are several reasons why Internet Explorer may be disabled in Windows 10. One of the main reasons is that Microsoft is trying to phase out Internet Explorer in favor of their new browser, Microsoft Edge. In addition, Internet Explorer may be disabled due to security reasons, as it is an older browser and may not be as secure as newer browsers.

Checking If Internet Explorer Is Disabled

Before we can enable Internet Explorer, we need to check if it is actually disabled. To do this, follow these steps:

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “appwiz.cpl” and press Enter.
Click on “Turn Windows features on or off” in the left-hand pane.
Look for Internet Explorer in the list of features. If it is unchecked, then it is disabled.

How to Enable Internet Explorer in Windows 10

Internet Explorer browser — How to Fix Internet Explorer Disabled from Windows 10

If Internet Explorer is disabled, we can enable it using either the Control Panel or the Group Policy Editor.

Using Control Panel

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “appwiz.cpl” and press Enter.
Click on “Turn Windows features on or off” in the left-hand pane.
Look for Internet Explorer in the list of features and check the box next to it.
Click OK.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Using Group Policy Editor

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “gpedit.msc” and press Enter.
Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Internet Explorer.
Double-click on “Disable Internet Explorer” in the right-hand pane.
Select “Not Configured” or “Disabled” and click OK.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

How to Uninstall and Reinstall Internet Explorer in Windows 10

If enabling Internet Explorer doesn’t work, you may need to uninstall and reinstall it. Here’s how:

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “appwiz.cpl” and press Enter.

Click on “Turn Windows features on or off” in the left-hand pane.
Uncheck the box next to Internet Explorer.
Click OK.
Restart your computer.
Repeat steps 1-3 to open the “Turn Windows features on or off” window.
Check the box next to Internet Explorer.
Click OK.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve discussed how to fix Internet Explorer disabled from Windows 10. We’ve looked at the reasons why Internet Explorer may be disabled, how to check if it is disabled, and how to enable it using the Control Panel or Group Policy Editor. If enabling Internet Explorer doesn’t work, we’ve also provided instructions on how to uninstall and reinstall it.