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What is Internet Explorer®?
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Internet Explorer® is an Internet browser that dates back to the dawn of public Internet in 1995. Created by the computer giant Microsoft®, Internet Explorer®, or IE®, has released 9 versions between its first program and the 2010 program, called Internet Explorer 9®. Originally part of an additional package that ran with the Windows 95® operating system, the web browser is now available as a free online download.
According to Internet experts, the original program was heavily based on the features available in a web browser called Mosaic™, which was developed at the University of Illinois by the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA). The distributor of this early browser allowed Microsoft® to adapt the program to better suit its new operating system. Microsoft® quickly retooled the browser and released it as Internet Explorer®.
Modern users may be surprised to discover how few features were available on the original product. The Internet of 1995 was a barren place compared to the high-speed wonders of 21st century web browsing. Not until the third version did Internet Explorer® even include applications for Internet mail and address books. In the early years, many computer experts considered the Microsoft® to be inferior to competitive products, but technological advances and the success of the operating system soon allowed Internet Explorer® to catch up.
The 4.0 release of Internet Explorer® began to raise serious anti-trust concerns throughout the legal and computer industries. By incorporating the browser into the operating system, it soon became virtually impossible to run a Windows® system without Internet Explorer® as the sole web browser. Concerns over restraint of trade soon lead to an expansive lawsuit, known as The United States vs. Microsoft®. Though an original ruling called for the computer giant to be split into two sections that would separately handle software and operating systems, this ruling was eventually overturned and the case settled with some concessions from Microsoft®.
Internet Explorer® remains one of the most popular Internet browsers on the market; however, it is not without its detractors. Many feel that security flaws in the programming leave it quite vulnerable to viruses, spyware, and other system attacks. Despite multiple patches released to cover discovered holes in security, some computer experts warn against using the browser without superior anti-virus software. In 2010, the German government issues a warning against using the browser after a link was discovered between holes in IE® security and extensive attacks on Internet behemoth Google™.
Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a EasyTechJunkie writer.
Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a EasyTechJunkie writer.
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![The original version of Internet Explorer had few bells and whistles compared to today's web browsers.]()
By: mikkolemThe original version of Internet Explorer had few bells and whistles compared to today's web browsers.
Discussion Comments
I can't help but think a lot of those security concerns are part of the same problem that has plagued Microsoft for years. For one reason or another, the company has a reputation for putting out products that are not as secure as those from competitors.
Frankly, I think those concerns are unfair when it comes to Internet explorer. A good virus/malware scanner will protect you regardless of what Internet browser you happen to be using at the time. There is a good argument that Internet Explorer is neither better nor worse than other browsers when it comes to security.
@Vincenzo -- A lot of people never bother searching for alternatives because Internet Explorer has become a modern browser that actually works quite well.
Is it the best thing on the market? That is arguable, but how many people want to mess around with downloading, installing and testing other browsers when they have one that works just fine?
There is a reason Internet Explorer is so popular. It comes bundled with Windows and is set up as the default browser out of the box. Some people like it a lot, but there are some great alternatives out there. Since it doesn't cost a dime to download and install competitors to Internet Explorer, why not give them a shot?
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