Can’t change Internet Explorer’s security settings? Try this

by Madalina Dinita

Last update:February 11, 2021

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Internet Explorer‘s privacy settings can affect how websites monitor your online activity.

So, not being able to change your Internet Explorer security settings can cause serious issues on your device.

You should decide when sites can use your location info, which cookies are stored, or block unwanted pop-ups.

If you’re trying to change your Internet Explorer’s security settings and you’re running into difficulties, check out the list below for the most common fixes.

Quick tip:

Perhaps before trying to fix any issues your current browser has, it can be less time consuming to simply switch to a new browser.

We are referring to Opera as the primary focus of this browser is on data protection, user interface, and privacy. The browser comes with multiple built-in tools designed to ensure maximum online protection.

Opera

Close to zero connection errors, free built-in VPN and enhanced encryption are some of the great features you can use right away!

DownloadVisit website

What can I do if the security settings keep resetting?

1. Check the Windows registry

1. Click the Start button.
2. Type regedit in the Windows search box and press Enter.
3. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes to open the Registry Editor.
4. Find your way to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionInternet

5. Check the items Security_options_edit and Security_zones_map_edit.
6. Set the value to 0.

Can’t access the Registry Editor? This article will show you how to do it.

2. Reset Internet Explorer

1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Select Tools and go to Internet options.
3. Next, select Advanced.
4. In the Reset Internet Explorer Settings dialog box, select Reset.
5. When asked Are you sure you want to reset all Internet Explorer settings? select Reset.
   
6. Next, click Close.
7. Then, select OK.
8. Restart your PC to apply these new changes.

Note: This process isn’t reversible. All previous Internet Explorer settings are lost after reset.

3. Perform a clean boot

1. In the search box on the taskbar, type msconfig.
2. On the Services tab of System Configuration, tick the Hide all Microsoft services checkbox.
   
   
3. Next, click Disable all.
4. In the Startup tab of System Configuration, select open Task Manager.
5. Under Startup, for each startup item, select the item, then select Disable.
6. Close Task Manager.
7. On the Startup tab, select OK.

Note: Are you using a domain-based computer? If so, your administrator may have configured new policies that restrict you from changing the Internet Explorer security settings.

We hope that one of the solutions presented above helped you change the Internet Explorer security settings.

In case of having any other questions or suggestions, leave them in the comments section below and we’ll be sure to check them out.