Update, October 29 (6:50 AM ET): Microsoft reached out to clarify that it is possible to disable the redirection behavior. Microsoft outlines the steps on how to do so in a support document.
What you need to know
- Microsoft will soon force several websites to open in Microsoft Edge instead of Internet Explorer.
- The list of sites includes Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and several other big names.
- Internet Explorer hasn't been officially supported for several years.
Microsoft shifted away from Internet Explorer years ago, but some people still cling to the old browser. Soon, people will be forced away from Internet Explorer when trying to open certain sites. According to ZDNet, Internet Explorer will soon refuse to open over 1,000 websites, including Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.
This change should occur next month. Following the switch, any time that someone tries to open certain sites within Internet Explorer, the site will open in Microsoft Edge instead. This feature has been in testing for some time, starting with Edge 84, which rolled out this summer. Starting with Edge 87, which should come out in November, Microsoft will start forcing the switch to Edge for certain sites.
The forced switch to Edge will occur for 1,156 websites, including big names like ESPN, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. The list of websites is held on a DLL file that Microsoft has built up.
When someone tries to navigate to one of the sites on Internet Explorer, they'll be met by a page that reads, "You've been redirected to Microsoft Edge where you can continue your browsing uninterrupted. To continue browsing seamlessly on Microsoft Edge, import your data and settings from Internet Explorer."
Of course, people can also choose to use a different browser than Edge or Internet Explorer.
Microsoft ended support for Internet Explorer 8, 9, and 10 four years ago, but some people still use it. This forced shift for several popular websites should bump a few more people over to more modern browsers, such as the new Microsoft Edge.
Luckily for those that are directed to Microsoft Edge, it's a solid browser that's earned a positive reputation. Microsoft recently switched to a Chromium base for the browser. The new browser has received positive reviews, including a 4.5/5 from our senior editor Zac Bowden.
