How to Remove Internet Explorer (IE)
Removing Internet Explorer (IE) from your computer can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with its complexities. However, with the right steps and tools, you can safely uninstall the browser and free up disk space. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of removing Internet Explorer, highlighting key steps and important considerations.
Before You Start
Before you begin, make sure you’ve backed up your important files and data. Internet Explorer uses various system files and configuration settings that can be difficult to remove. If you’re not comfortable with the process, it’s recommended to seek professional help.
Uninstalling Internet Explorer
To uninstall Internet Explorer, you’ll need to:
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Stop the Internet Explorer service: First, you need to stop the Internet Explorer service. You can do this by following these steps:
- Type "services.msc" in the Run dialog box: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type "services.msc" and press Enter.
- Find and disable the Internet Explorer service: In the Services window, find the Internet Explorer service and click on it. Click on the "Properties" tab and then click on the "Stop" button.
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Restart the computer: Restart your computer to start the uninstallation process.
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Use the Control Panel: Alternatively, you can use the Control Panel to uninstall Internet Explorer. Follow these steps:
- Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features (Windows 7 and 8) or Add or Remove Programs (Windows XP).
- Click on Turn Windows features on or off and check the box next to Internet Explorer.
- Click on OK to apply the changes.
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Use the Windows 10 Store: Alternatively, you can use the Windows 10 Store to uninstall Internet Explorer. Follow these steps:
- Open the Store: Go to Search and type "Windows Store" in the search bar.
- Open the Store: Type "Windows Store" in the search bar and select the store from the search results.
- Go to the Store: Click on the "Go to the Store" button.
- Uninstall Internet Explorer: Click on the "Uninstall" button next to "Microsoft Edge" (or "Internet Explorer" on Windows 10).
Removing Internet Explorer’s System Files
Internet Explorer uses various system files to function, and removing these files can cause issues with your computer. Here are some system files you can remove:
- msie7nsp1.dll: This file is used to load the Internet Explorer private mode. To remove it, follow these steps:
- Type "msie7nsp1.dll" in the Run dialog box: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type "msie7nsp1.dll" and press Enter.
- Delete the file: Right-click on the file and select "Delete".
- msie7.dll: This file is used to load the Internet Explorer kernel. To remove it, follow these steps:
- Type "msie7.dll" in the Run dialog box: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type "msie7.dll" and press Enter.
- Delete the file: Right-click on the file and select "Delete".
Removing Internet Explorer’s Configuration Files
Internet Explorer also uses various configuration files to function. Here are some files you can remove:
- ieconfig.txt: This file is used to configure Internet Explorer. To remove it, follow these steps:
- Copy the file: Copy the file from the "Program Files" directory (or "C:Program Files" on Windows 10).
- Delete the file: Delete the copy of the file.
Removing Internet Explorer’s Temporary Files
Internet Explorer uses various temporary files to store temporary data and cache. Here are some files you can remove:
- *iecache.tlog**: These files are used to store cache data. To remove them, follow these steps:
- Copy the files: Copy the files from the "C:UsersusernameAppDataLocalMicrosoftWindowsTemporary Files" directory (or "C:UsersusernameAppDataLocalMicrosoftWindowsTemp").
- Delete the files: Delete the copy of the files.
Removing Internet Explorer’s Add-ins and Plug-ins
Internet Explorer uses various add-ins and plug-ins to function. Here are some examples of files you can remove:
- IEConfig.dll: This file is used to configure Internet Explorer. To remove it, follow these steps:
- Copy the file: Copy the file from the "C:Program FilesMicrosoft IE PressIEConfig.dll" directory.
- Delete the file: Delete the copy of the file.
- ActionCenter.dll: This file is used to access Action Center settings. To remove it, follow these steps:
- Copy the file: Copy the file from the "C:Program FilesMicrosoft IE PressActionCenter.dll" directory.
- Delete the file: Delete the copy of the file.
Post-Installation Steps
After uninstalling Internet Explorer, you may need to perform some additional steps:
- Reinstall Windows: If you want to reinstall Windows, you’ll need to reinstall the operating system. This can be a lengthy process.
- Update your operating system: Make sure your operating system is up to date, as updates may fix issues caused by Internet Explorer removal.
Conclusion
Removing Internet Explorer can be a complex process, but with the right steps and tools, you can safely uninstall the browser and free up disk space. Remember to be careful when removing system files and configuration files, as these can cause issues with your computer. If you’re not comfortable with the process, it’s recommended to seek professional help.