The History and Fade of Internet Explorer – the Browser that Defined the Web Introduction

For over two decades, Internet Explorer was the very definition of web browsing. Internet Explorer was launched in 1995 by Microsoft, and quickly grew to control the market share of browsers in the early 2000s, bundled as part of the Windows operating system. Today, it is largely ignored as a relic of the past and has been officially retired by Microsoft in favour of the newest, safer and faster web browsers, namely Microsoft Edge. In addition, Internet Explorer is much more than just software – it is a representation of the web itself.

In this guest post, we will review the history, accomplishments, criticisms, and final chapter of Internet Explorer. Furthermore, we will relate its legacy to modern-day digital solutions, and explain how organizations can benefit today from modern tools like CRM software for small business. For organizations who are exploring today’s digital world, please remember to Visit Outright Systems for your tech needs and any CRM customizations and implementations.

Rise of Internet Explorer

When Internet Explorer (IE) first released on August 16, 1995, as part of the Windows 95 Plus! pack – it was using licensed technology from Spyglass Mosaic. By the introduction of IE 3.0 and IE 4.0, Microsoft took a bold step by weaving the browser more intricately into the Windows operating system, making it easier for users to tap into web content right from their desktop. This strategic move was a key factor in the remarkable rise of Internet Explorer’s market share.

Internet Explorer was the dominant internet browser for many years, but eventually gave way to more attractive, faster and safer browsers. Internet Explorer pioneered a number of features that would become commonplace on the web:

Tabbed Browsing (IE7): This allowed for a better, more organized experience as one browser’s window could display web pages from different resources.

ActiveX Controls: Initially seen as a great benefit for the embedding of interactive content, subsequently to be vilified for introducing security problems.

Windows Integration: All Microsoft Windows users had Internet Explorer readily available for them, removing barriers to accessing the web.

Developer Tools: Internet Explorer did have some of the earliest versions of developer tools to assist with the basic debugging of HTML and scripting in basic formats.

Despite all of these benefits, Internet Explorer was outpaced given the changing demands of users and developers over time.

The Decline: Security, Performance, User Frustration, and Stagnation

However, Internet Explorer won’t be remembered as the dominant browser forever, and by the mid-2000s, a number of serious issues for Internet Explorer began to appear including:

Security: Due to the amount of users, nearby 95% of internet users using Internet Explorer, it became the target for hackers everywhere, as well as hacking websites, users, and installed browser Add-ons were easily created by using third-party companion software to hack content into the browser.

Slow Development: The lack of new features and slow updates put Internet Explorer at greater risk; specifically, the open-source nature of Firefox and continued advancement of Google Chrome.

Lack of Standards: Internet Explorer was criticized for not following standards set by later organizations and which meant designers and developers were not able to write and design easy and compelling cross-browser compatible apps.

Frustrated Users: Constant crashes and slow page rendering contradicted with many browser plugins to users left.

These observer issues began to chip away at Internet Explorer’s browser share numbers at a quickened pace. By the start of 2015, questioning both reliability and safety.

Official Retirement and Its Substitutes

Microsoft formally declared that Internet Explorer 11, the last version, would no longer be supported in 2022. Microsoft Edge, a Chromium-based browser with improved security, compatibility, and performance, was recommended to users.

Edge has features such as:

• More privacy options
• Smooth support for extensions
• Integrated tools for taking screenshots and reading PDFs
• Mode of compatibility for older websites that are only compatible with Internet Explorer

The retirement of Internet Explorer marked the end of an important period in the history of the web. However, it also signaled the beginning of a new era that prioritized user-centric design, speed, and security.

Lessons for Contemporary Companies

Internet Explorer’s experience holds a number of valuable lessons for contemporary companies:

Adaptation Is Essential: IE’s collapse from market top dog status reflects the risk of resting on your laurels within a rapidly developing tech environment.

Security Is Fundamental: Neglecting to advance security protocols leads to loss of confidence and generalized vulnerabilities.

Experience Leads to Use: Contemporary customers anticipate simple use, rapid access, and device compatibility.

For companies working through this environment, it is important to invest in current software solutions. This is where CRM software designed for small companies comes into its own. It enables expanding businesses to effectively manage customer relationships, remain competitive, and expand operations without a hitch.

What’s Next for Internet Explorer?

While IE itself is no longer active, its presence continues in numerous enterprise applications and government websites that continue to use older web technologies. The Compatibility Mode within Microsoft Edge assists with these legacy applications, yet the emphasis is now on innovation and cloud-first, mobile-first experiences.

For today’s business requirements, tools such as cloud-based CRMs, AI-driven analytics, and auto-marketing tools replaced the type of static, browser-based tools once accessed through Internet Explorer.

How Current Tools Can Assist Businesses Today

As we increasingly become part of a digitally connected world, companies can no longer continue to use old tools. Rather, they need:

• To use cloud-based platforms to provide accessibility and collaboration.
• To maintain data security and compliance.
• Automate customer interactions to save time and enhance service.
• Merge multiple platforms for hassle-free data flow.

This is where CRM software designed for small businesses comes into play, a game-changer. It not only manages customer data but also assists in personalizing interactions, monitoring sales pipelines, and automating marketing campaigns.

To begin using cutting-edge, trustworthy, and scalable solutions, we invite businesses to Visit Outright Systems. Their experts provide high-end CRM customization services that can assist small businesses in unleashing the entire potential of customer data.

Conclusion

Internet Explorer might be gone, but its legacy in shaping how we use the web is undeniable. It set the stage for much of the standards and experiences that we now take for granted. With technology constantly advancing, the demise of IE serves as a reminder that businesses have to constantly keep up and invest in current solutions.

From security and performance to user expectations and integration, today’s digital tools provide unparalleled capabilities. And if you’re a small business wanting to keep pace, utilizing CRM software designed for small businesses is a wise move forward. To discover the best-fit tools and expert assistance for your business, don’t forget to Visit Outright Systems—your partner in scalable, efficient digital transformation.