How to Use 32 Bit Internet Explorer
Using 32-bit Internet Explorer can be beneficial for certain users, especially those who need to run legacy applications or websites that are not compatible with newer versions of the browser. In this article, we will guide you through the process of using 32-bit Internet Explorer on your Windows system. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth experience.
1. Check if you are running a 32-bit version of Windows:
Before proceeding, it is essential to confirm that your Windows operating system is 32-bit. To do this, press the Windows key + R, type ‘sysdm.cpl’ in the Run dialog box, and press Enter. In the System Properties window, click on the ‘Advanced’ tab, and then click on ‘Environment Variables.’ Look for the ‘Path’ variable and check if it contains ‘iexplore.exe’ with a 32-bit architecture. If it does, you are ready to proceed.
2. Install the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer:
Now that you have confirmed that your system is 32-bit, you need to install the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer. If you have already installed Internet Explorer 11, it is likely that the 32-bit version is already present. To verify, open the Control Panel, go to Programs, and then Programs and Features. Look for Internet Explorer 11 (32-bit) in the list of installed programs. If it is not present, you will need to download and install it from the official Microsoft website.
3. Set Internet Explorer as your default browser:
After installing the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer, you may want to set it as your default browser. To do this, open Internet Explorer, click on the gear icon in the upper-right corner, and select ‘Internet Options.’ In the General tab, under the ‘Default web browser’ section, click on ‘Make default.’ This will ensure that all web links open in Internet Explorer.
4. Configure Internet Explorer settings:
Once you have set Internet Explorer as your default browser, you may want to configure some settings to enhance your experience. Open Internet Explorer, click on the gear icon, and select ‘Internet Options.’ Here, you can adjust settings such as security, privacy, and appearance to suit your preferences.
5. Troubleshoot compatibility issues:
When using the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer, you may encounter compatibility issues with certain websites or applications. To resolve these issues, you can try the following steps:
- Check for compatibility mode: Right-click on the website’s shortcut or link, select ‘Properties,’ and go to the ‘Compatibility’ tab. Enable ‘Run this program in compatibility mode for:’ and select ‘Windows 7’ or ‘Windows Vista’ from the dropdown menu.
- Use the Internet Explorer Developer Tools: Open the website in Internet Explorer, press F12 to open the Developer Tools, and inspect the HTML and CSS to identify any compatibility issues.
- Update your browser: Ensure that you have the latest version of Internet Explorer installed, as newer versions often include compatibility fixes.
By following these steps, you should be able to use the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer effectively on your 32-bit Windows system. Remember to keep your browser updated and regularly check for compatibility issues to ensure a seamless web browsing experience.
