How to Check Your Internet Explorer Version in Windows 10 and Why You Should Upgrade

Checking your Internet Explorer version in Windows 10 is a straightforward task. Simply navigate to the About Internet Explorer section to find out which version you#39;re using. While it might be tempting to stick with the familiar, it#39;s crucial to understand that the current version of Internet Explorer is no longer supported and poses significant security risks.

How to Check Internet Explorer Version in Windows 10

Before we dive into the methods to check your Internet Explorer version, it#39;s important to note that Internet Explorer has been officially abandoned by Microsoft since 2016. These days, if you still use Internet Explorer, you should prioritize upgrading to a more secure and up-to-date browser such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Firefox.

Method 1: Using the Tools Menu

The simplest way to check your Internet Explorer version is by clicking on the Tools tab, then selecting About Internet Explorer. This will display the version number of the browser you are currently using.

Method 2: Using the Help Menu

Another method involves navigating to Help within your browser. In Windows versions of Internet Explorer, you can find this by clicking on the Help menu, and then selecting About Internet Explorer. Similarly, in some versions, you can click the gear symbol and then choose About Internet Explorer.

Method 3: Using the Registry Editor

For users who prefer technical methods, you can also check the version of Internet Explorer using the Windows Registry. Here are the steps:

Press Windows R to open the Run dialog box. Enter regedit and click OK to open the Registry Editor. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareMicrosoftInternet Explorer. In the right pane, find the value named svcVersion. This value will give you the version number of Internet Explorer.

It should resemble a number in the format 11.778.18362.0, indicating the specific version you are using.

What to Do If You Have an Old Version of Internet Explorer

If you have a version of Internet Explorer older than 11, you should first try the above methods to identify the version. Then, you can follow these steps to upgrade:

In older versions, click the gearwheel symbol at the top right corner of your browser and select About Internet Explorer to check your version. In the case of Internet Explorer 11 or newer, especially in older versions of Windows, clicking the gearwheel will open a pop-up menu with your current version. If you are using the Microsoft Edge browser, open the Settings menu via the three ellipses or with Alt X, then navigate to the General section. The version number will be listed at the bottom of the page.

Why You Should Upgrade

Despite its familiarity, Internet Explorer is out of date and lacks the modern security features needed to protect your system from today#39;s cyber threats. Here are some reasons why you should consider upgrading:

Security Risks: Internet Explorer is no longer supported and does not receive security updates, leaving your machine vulnerable to exploits. Performance Issues: Modern browsers like Edge, Chrome, and Firefox are optimized for performance and can handle today#39;s web content much more efficiently. Stability and Reliability: These browsers are more stable and reliable compared to Internet Explorer, leading to fewer crashes and better user experience. Compatibility: Many modern web applications and services are designed for modern browsers. Using an outdated browser can limit your access to these services. Productivity: Upgrading to a more modern browser can improve your overall productivity, especially when dealing with complex web applications.

Conclusion

While it might be tempting to stick with the familiar Internet Explorer, it is essential to understand the security and performance risks associated with using outdated software. Upgrade to a more secure and up-to-date browser to protect your system and enhance your overall computing experience.