Microsoft Is Keeping IE Mode Alive Inside Edge Until at Least 2029

Microsoft says Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge will remain supported through at least the end of 2029, giving organizations more time to move away from legacy websites and applications.

According to Message Center advisory MC1473151, the support commitment applies across Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, and DoD cloud environments. Microsoft also says it will provide at least one year of formal notice before IE mode is ultimately retired.

IE mode keeps legacy applications running in Edge

IE mode allows organizations to open older websites and business applications that were originally designed for Internet Explorer and may not work correctly in Chromium-based browsers.

Organizations can continue relying on IE mode for now, but Microsoft recommends using the remaining support period to modernize legacy applications before the feature eventually disappears.

Microsoft wants admins to inventory IE mode dependencies

Microsoft is advising administrators to identify business-critical websites and applications that still depend on IE mode.

Organizations should review their existing Enterprise Mode Site List and current IE mode usage to build an inventory of legacy dependencies.

Admins can then assess each application and decide whether it should be updated, rehosted, replaced, or rebuilt using modern technologies.

Microsoft offers migration assistance

Eligible customers experiencing compatibility problems can use Microsoft App Assure for no-cost assistance with Microsoft Edge and IE mode application compatibility.

The latest advisory does not disable IE mode or require administrators to make configuration changes immediately.

However, Microsoft is encouraging organizations to begin migration planning now rather than waiting until the final retirement deadline approaches.

Microsoft is also making other changes across Edge. Microsoft Edge Canary may be disabling Manifest V2 extensions, while Edge 153 can completely freeze on web apps.

The changes extend to enterprise features as well, with Edge 154 dropping WIP and MDAG support.

Via Neowin