Microsoft Pulls Plug on Internet Explorer 8, 9 & 10: What You Need to Know
By: Michael Olson
It’s official – Microsoft is pulling the plug on outdated versions of Internet Explorer (IE).
Beginning today, the tech giant will cease to provide technical support for IE 8, 9 and 10, leaving millions of users who are still operating on these out-of-date versions susceptible to several problematic scenarios ranging from diminished website functionality and a poor user experience to potentially serious security threats.
While these versions will still be available for use, users are encouraged to upgrade to IE 11, or switch to another Web browser, such as Google Chrome or Firefox. Those who do not update their browser could become vulnerable to viruses when searching the Web, and may even start to notice broken elements on frequently visited websites.
With browsers changing as often as the weather forecast and new updates rolling out on a regular basis, it’s important to evaluate your website against the latest Web development standards.
In lieu of Microsoft’s recent announcement, here are a few questions you can ask yourself to gauge whether your website is compatible with today’s most commonly used browsers:
- Have you had your website tested across browser types? If the answer is “yes,” great! You’re ahead of the curve and can breathe a little easier knowing your website is offering a consistent user experience, no matter which browser consumers are using. If the answer is “no,” you should probably add this to your to-do list sooner rather than later. There may be elements of your site that appear “broken” on certain browsers and a segment of your customer base will not experience your website the way you intended.
- Which browsers was your website tested for? Browser testing is a critically important step in the website development process. Whether you’re in the process of building a new website, recently underwent a redesign, or haven’t updated your website in several years, you’ll want to schedule recurring maintenance checks to ensure your website is tested across commonly used browsers, including IE 11, Chrome, Firefox and more.
- What do recent changes suggest about the next big digital trend? With talk of a next-generation browser coming to Windows 10 and competing browsers constantly innovating to meet the ever-evolving needs of users, Web developers are taking notice, as each iteration suggests a shift in Web development trends. Recent changes support the mobile-first mentality many brands are taking, and only time will tell which opportunities lie on the horizon. Is your website in a good position to adjust to shifting trends?
Unsure whether your corporate website is compatible with today’s most-utilized browsers? Schedule a website checkup today. Contact Identity President/Founding Partner Mark Winter at [email protected] for more information.
