Microsoft Ends Support for Three Versions of Internet Explorer; IE 11 Soon to Follow

When support ends on a product, it is very important to upgrade to a new version or change to a new product. In the case of browsers, Microsoft pulled the plug on support for Internet Explorer versions 8, 9, and 10 on January 12, 2016.

It is highly recommended that anyone still using any of these, take some time to upgrade to IE11 or to the new Windows 10 browser, Edge. Because support has ceased, no more patches will be released, leaving users vulnerable to any potential issues that may be found after that final date. The biggest risk today is malware. When a vulnerability is exploited, criminals can download malware to your computer without your knowledge simply by visiting a malicious site. Online banking malware is 300x more popular than any other type right now as it can take over your account and drain the funds. If you are running a dead version of IE, upgrade or change browsers right away.

In addition, it is wise to keep all software, firmware, apps, etc. updated with the most current versions and updates. The risk of leaving them status quo is hackers finding out there is a hole and take advantage of it. They could use it to spy on you, take over your device, or steal information off of it. This goes for computers, smartphones, and tablets, as well as any product that connects to the Internet. So don’t forget the game consoles, Internet-connected toys, security cameras, refrigerators, networking equipment, and even toilets to name a few more.

But wait, don’t despair if you insist on keeping old habits alive! Microsoft will be releasing one final cumulative patch on the same date they stop supporting IE 8, 9, and 10. So, if you want to be the risk-taker and continue using those, make sure you at least apply that one last update. However, since IE 11 is going extinct soon anyway, it’s recommended to use Edge or some other browser altogether.

If you are one still hanging on to Windows XP, it's a good time to upgrade to a new and supported operating system as well. Support for that product ended in early 2014.

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