Microsoft has announced that it will end support for Internet Explorer 8, 9, and 10 from next week. This significant change will take place on Tuesday, the 12th of January.
Microsoft will release a patch next week that will encourage users of Internet Explorer 8, 9, and 10 to upgrade to a more recent version, Internet Explorer 11.
Beginning January 12, 2016, only the most current version of Internet Explorer available for a supported operating system will receive technical supports and security updates. Internet Explorer 11 is the last version of Internet Explorer, and will continue to receive security updates, compatibility fixes, and technical support on Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10.
Why is Microsoft Ending Support?
The decision to end support for these older versions of Internet Explorer is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to streamline its browser offerings and enhance security for its users. Older versions of Internet Explorer have been known to have numerous security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malicious actors. By encouraging users to upgrade to Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft aims to provide a more secure browsing experience.
Additionally, maintaining support for multiple versions of a browser can be resource-intensive. By focusing on the latest version, Microsoft can allocate its resources more efficiently, ensuring that Internet Explorer 11 remains robust and secure.
Impact on Users and Developers
For users, this change means that continuing to use Internet Explorer 8, 9, or 10 will leave their systems more vulnerable to security risks. Without regular updates and patches, these older versions will become increasingly susceptible to malware and other cyber threats. Users are strongly encouraged to upgrade to Internet Explorer 11 or consider using alternative browsers such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox.
For web developers, the end of support for these older versions is a welcome change. Developing websites that are compatible with multiple versions of Internet Explorer has long been a challenge due to the significant differences in how each version handles web standards. With fewer versions to support, developers can focus on creating more modern, efficient, and secure web applications.
Moreover, Internet Explorer 11 offers improved performance and better support for modern web standards compared to its predecessors. This means that websites can be more interactive, responsive, and visually appealing when viewed on Internet Explorer 11.
You can find out more details about Microsoft ending support for versions 8, 9, and 10 of IE over at their website at the link below.
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