No More Support for Internet Explorer 8, 9 and 10

From Tuesday 12th January 2016, technical support and security updates for Internet Explorer (IE) 8, 9 and 10 will cease.

The latest version of Internet Explorer (Internet Explorer 11) will be the only edition which will receive technical support, security updates compatibility fixes (on Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10) whilst Microsoft  continues to transition customers to Edge on Windows 10.

A patch will go live on January 12th which will nag IE users on launch to upgrade their browser.

Why Are Microsoft Stopping Support for Internet Explorer 8, 9 and 10?

Microsoft are taking steps to improve online security, compatibility and performance by moving users on to improved browsers which better support web standards that power today’s websites and online services.

For web developers, the news is welcomed, as old versions of Internet Explorer have long caused issues for cross-browser design and usability. They will no longer need to worry whether modern CSS works in these browsers, or adapt websites to do so.

What Will Happen if You Continue to Run Internet Explorer 8, 9 and 10?

If you continue to run older versions of Internet Explorer after January 12 2016 you may be exposed to potential security risks. As you will no longer receive crucial browser security updates, your PC may become more susceptible to viruses and other malicious software which may be able to steal date or damage your business information.

Secondly, if you run a business you may be required through meet certain compliance standards and using unsupported software may cause you issues.

Lastly, by not upgrading you will be decreasing your online user experience. It is always best to use the latest edition of browsers, not only for improved security and support, but also to take advantage of modern web standards.

Do You Need to Upgrade Your Version of Internet Explorer?

If you are using any version of Internet Explorer below 11, then you should upgrade. You can do so through the Microsoft website. For those using Internet Explorer 11 or Edge on Windows 10 you will not need to make any changes.

It is possible to disable the nag however it is much easier and beneficial long term to just upgrade, or switch your browser.