Security News > 2022 > June > Internet Explorer (almost) breathes its final byte on Wednesday
This retirement affects Internet Explorer 11 desktop apps on specific versions of Windows 10 delivered via the Semi-Annual Channel to systems running Windows 10 client SKUs and Windows 10 IoT. Internet Explorer is also not available on Windows 11, where the new Chromium-based Microsoft Edge is the default web browser.
Windows releases where Internet Explorer will still be available after June 15, 2022, include Windows 7 ESU, Windows 8.1, and all versions of Windows 10 LTSC client, IoT, and Server.
"The Internet Explorer 11 desktop application will end support for Windows 10 semi-annual channel starting June 15, 2022," Microsoft says on the IE11 lifecycle page.
As Microsoft further explains, "For supported operating systems, Internet Explorer 11 will continue receiving security updates and technical support for the lifecycle of the Windows version on which it is installed."
Internet Explorer's demise likely doesn't surprise anyone since Microsoft has been encouraging customers to switch from Internet Explorer for years.
In August 2020, it announced plans to ditch support for Internet Explorer 11 web browsers in Windows 10 and Microsoft 365, with an official announcement of the Internet Explorer 11 desktop application's retirement issued on May 19, 2021.