Internet Explorer vs. Microsoft Edge

Attribute	Internet Explorer	Microsoft Edge
Developer	Microsoft	Microsoft
Release Date	August 16, 1995	July 29, 2015
Rendering Engine	Trident	EdgeHTML
Default Browser in Windows	Yes (until Windows 10)	Yes (Windows 10 and later)
Legacy Support	Extensive	Partial
Extensions Support	No	Yes

Introduction

Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge are two popular web browsers developed by Microsoft. While Internet Explorer has been around for many years and was the default browser for Windows operating systems, Microsoft Edge was introduced as a replacement in 2015. Both browsers have their own set of features and capabilities, making them suitable for different types of users.

User Interface

One of the key differences between Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge is the user interface. Internet Explorer has a more traditional layout with menus and toolbars at the top of the window. On the other hand, Microsoft Edge has a more modern and streamlined design, with a minimalist interface that focuses on the content of the web page. Edge also includes features like a customizable start page and the ability to set aside tabs for later viewing.

Performance

When it comes to performance, Microsoft Edge has the edge over Internet Explorer. Edge is built on a new rendering engine called EdgeHTML, which is faster and more efficient than the Trident engine used by Internet Explorer. This results in faster page loading times and smoother scrolling in Edge compared to Internet Explorer. Edge also has better support for modern web standards, making it a more reliable choice for browsing the web.

Security

Security is a major concern when it comes to web browsers, and both Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge have their own security features. Internet Explorer has a reputation for being less secure than other browsers due to its outdated codebase and lack of regular updates. On the other hand, Microsoft Edge is constantly updated with the latest security patches and features like SmartScreen Filter and Windows Defender SmartScreen to protect users from malicious websites and downloads.

Extensions and Add-ons

Another area where Microsoft Edge has an advantage over Internet Explorer is in the availability of extensions and add-ons. While Internet Explorer has a limited selection of add-ons, Microsoft Edge has a growing library of extensions that users can install to enhance their browsing experience. Edge also supports popular extensions like AdBlock Plus, LastPass, and Pinterest, making it a more versatile browser for users who rely on these tools.

Compatibility

Compatibility with websites and web applications is another important factor to consider when choosing a web browser. Internet Explorer has a reputation for being less compatible with modern websites due to its outdated rendering engine and lack of support for newer web standards. Microsoft Edge, on the other hand, is designed to be more compatible with modern websites and web applications, making it a better choice for users who need to access a wide range of online content.

Cross-Platform Support

Microsoft Edge is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, making it a more versatile choice for users who use multiple devices. Internet Explorer, on the other hand, is only available on Windows operating systems, limiting its usability for users who use other platforms. This cross-platform support makes Microsoft Edge a more convenient option for users who want a consistent browsing experience across all their devices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to web browsing. While Internet Explorer may be more familiar to some users, Microsoft Edge offers a more modern and efficient browsing experience with better performance, security, and compatibility. Ultimately, the choice between the two browsers will depend on the individual user's needs and preferences.