To ensure that Microsoft is in compliance with European law, Microsoft will be releasing a separate version of Windows 7 for distribution in Europe that will not include Windows Internet Explorer. Microsoft will offer IE8 separately and free of charge and will make it easy and convenient for PC manufacturers to preinstall IE 8 on Windows 7 machines in Europe if they so choose. PC manufacturers may choose to install an alternative browser instead of IE 8, and has always been the case, they may install multiple browsers if they wish.Two flavors of each Windows 7 (Home, Pro, Ultimate, etc.) will be available in EU territories:
- Windows 7 E: the release without Internet Explorer, and
- Windows 7 N: the release without IE and Windows Media Player.
- A browser choice screen requires a custom application and up-to-date installers. Developing and maintaining that software will have a direct cost to the manufacturer.
- Alternatively, assume that an OEM offered a different browser. Would novices be confused by the absence of the blue ‘e’ icon and complain that their new PC is not Internet-enabled?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Internet Explorer for Windows 7 in Europe
Why is Internet Explorer not available in Windows 7 for Europe?
The unavailability of Internet Explorer in Windows 7 for Europe is due to a decision made by Microsoft in response to a European Commission investigation. The investigation was about the bundling of Internet Explorer with Windows, which was seen as anti-competitive. As a result, Microsoft decided to offer a version of Windows 7 without Internet Explorer in Europe.
How can I install Internet Explorer on Windows 7 in Europe?
You can install Internet Explorer on Windows 7 in Europe by downloading it from the official Microsoft website. Once downloaded, you can run the installer to install Internet Explorer on your system. Please ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for the installation.
What are the alternatives to Internet Explorer for Windows 7 in Europe?
There are several alternatives to Internet Explorer for Windows 7 in Europe. These include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Opera. These browsers offer similar functionalities to Internet Explorer and are widely used.
Is Internet Explorer safe to use on Windows 7 in Europe?
Internet Explorer is safe to use on Windows 7 in Europe as long as you keep it updated with the latest security patches. However, Microsoft has ended support for Internet Explorer, which means that it will no longer receive security updates. Therefore, it is recommended to switch to a different browser.
Why did Microsoft end support for Internet Explorer?
Microsoft ended support for Internet Explorer to focus on its newer browser, Microsoft Edge. The company believes that Edge offers a better browsing experience with improved security and performance.
Can I still use Internet Explorer after support has ended?
Yes, you can still use Internet Explorer after support has ended. However, it is not recommended as the browser will no longer receive security updates, which could leave your system vulnerable to threats.
What are the system requirements for installing Internet Explorer on Windows 7?
The system requirements for installing Internet Explorer on Windows 7 include a 1 GHz processor, 1 GB of RAM for 32-bit systems or 2 GB for 64-bit systems, and 16 GB of hard disk space for 32-bit systems or 20 GB for 64-bit systems.
How can I update Internet Explorer on Windows 7?
You can update Internet Explorer on Windows 7 by using the Windows Update feature. However, please note that Microsoft has ended support for Internet Explorer, so there will be no new updates.
Can I use Internet Explorer on other versions of Windows?
Yes, you can use Internet Explorer on other versions of Windows. However, Microsoft has ended support for the browser, so it is recommended to switch to a different browser.
What is the difference between Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge?
Microsoft Edge is the successor to Internet Explorer. It offers a more modern browsing experience with improved security and performance. It also supports a wider range of web standards, making it more compatible with modern websites.
Craig is a freelance UK web consultant who built his first page for IE2.0 in 1995. Since that time he's been advocating standards, accessibility, and best-practice HTML5 techniques. He's created enterprise specifications, websites and online applications for companies and organisations including the UK Parliament, the European Parliament, the Department of Energy & Climate Change, Microsoft, and more. He's written more than 1,000 articles for SitePoint and you can find him @craigbuckler.