Using Internet Explorer (IE) Mode in Microsoft Edge

Applies to: CRL staff accessing legacy/IE-only sites  |  Category: Browser  |  Est. time: 5 minutes

Some older websites — including certain legacy government (.mil/.gov) applications — only work correctly in Internet Explorer. Microsoft Edge includes Internet Explorer (IE) mode to render those sites. Follow the steps below to turn it on and reload a page in IE mode.

Step 1 — Turn on IE mode

1. In Edge, click the Settings and more (…) button at the top right and select Settings. (Or type edge://settings/defaultBrowser in the address bar and press Enter.)
2. Select Default browser in the left pane.
3. Under Internet Explorer compatibility, set Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode to Allow.
4. Click Restart to restart Edge and apply the change.

Step 2 — Reload a page in IE mode

1. Navigate to the site you need to view.
2. Click the Settings and more (…) button and select Reload in Internet Explorer mode.
3. You’re in IE mode when the Internet Explorer logo appears to the left of the address bar.

Optional — Always open a site in IE mode

When a page opens in IE mode, a bar appears at the top. Toggle Open this page in Internet Explorer mode next time to On to have Edge remember the choice for that site.

Good to know: This per-site preference expires after 30 days. When it lapses, just turn it on again. To leave IE mode at any time, click Leave in the bar (or Open in Microsoft Edge).

Don’t see the setting, or a site still won’t load in IE mode? It may be controlled by CRL policy, or the site may not be configured for IE mode. Open a HelpSpot ticket and the IT Team can help — include the site’s address.

IE mode in Edge is supported by Microsoft through at least 2029. Reference: Internet Explorer mode in Microsoft Edge (Microsoft Support).

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© CRL Technologies, Inc. — Internal IT Knowledge Base. For CRL staff use only.