Microsoft Edge vs. Internet Explorer: What has changed?

 

Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer both created by Microsoft have played roles in shaping the way we browse the web. While Internet Explorer was once a choice it has now been replaced by Microsoft Edge, which boasts improved performance and security features. Understanding how these two browsers differ is essential for users transitioning from the Internet Explorer to the newer Microsoft Edge.

Changes in User Interface

The user interface (UI) of Microsoft Edge marks a departure from that of Internet Explorer. Edge offers a sleeker and user friendly design to enhance the browsing experience. The tabs in Edge are easier to manage. It even supports a dark mode option for reduced eye strain.

Internet Explorers UI seemed outdated compared to standards with its bulky toolbar and limited customization options. In contrast Edge simplifies these aspects with a focus on simplicity and user friendliness.

Another key factor is how Microsoft Edge integrates with Windows 10 and 11. It seamlessly works within these operating systems offering features like Cortana integration and the ability to pin websites to the taskbar for access.

Improvements, in Performance

Microsoft Edge is engineered to deliver more efficient performance compared to Internet Explorer.

Microsoft Edge utilizes the Chromium engine, to Google Chrome enhancing its speed and compatibility with contemporary web standards. Unlike Internet Explorer, which often struggled with loading times and rendering issues Edge offers improved performance for tasks like streaming videos and running web applications. It also manages system resources efficiently even when multiple tabs are open ensuring smooth system operation without unnecessary delays.

Enhanced Security Features

Security has been a key priority in the development of Microsoft Edge. The browser incorporates security measures such as sandboxing, which isolates web processes to prevent malicious attacks from impacting other parts of the system. Unlike Internet Explorers vulnerabilities that made it an easy target for hackers due to its structure and lack of timely updates Edge now provides better protection against phishing and malware through SmartScreen technology. Moreover it supports logins via Windows Hello for added security during sensitive transactions.

Adaptation to Modern Web Standards

The transition from Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge was largely driven by the need for compatibility, with web standards.

Edge fully supports HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript ES6 enabling it to efficiently display complex websites. In contrast Internet Explorer fell behind in this aspect often necessitating developers to write code for compatibility purposes. This not prolonged development time but also led to inconsistent user experiences across various browsers.

• HTML5: enhances multimedia capabilities without the need for plugins
• CSS3: offers improved styling options for website designs
• JavaScript ES6: provides more efficient scripting capabilities for dynamic content

Regarding integration Microsoft Edge has a deeper connection with Microsofts ecosystem compared to Internet Explorer. Features like synchronization across devices enable users to access their bookmarks, passwords and browsing history on multiple platforms. This integration also extends to Office 365; users can open Office files within Edge without requiring separate applications streamlining productivity tasks. Additionally the browser supports extensions from both Microsofts store and the Chrome Web Store due to its Chromium foundation.

The transition from Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge signifies an enhancement in user interface design, performance speed, security measures, compliance, with modern web standards and ecosystem integration. While Internet Explorer served its purpose in its heyday Microsoft Edge addresses many of its predecessors limitations by leveraging technologies and closely integrating with current operating systems and services.