Run Legacy Internet Explorer on Windows 8 - Compatibility Mode

Installing Older Versions of Internet Explorer on Modern Windows

Are you currently using a recent version of Windows and find yourself requiring an earlier iteration of Internet Explorer? The process of integrating a legacy browser into a contemporary operating system can be accomplished. This guide details the necessary steps.

The Scenario: Compatibility Challenges

Sometimes, specific websites or web applications function optimally only with older browser versions. Maintaining access to these resources necessitates the ability to run those older versions alongside your current browser.

This particular question and its solution originate from SuperUser, a valuable resource within the Stack Exchange network. SuperUser is a community-focused collection of question and answer websites.

Understanding the Process

Successfully installing an older Internet Explorer version on a newer Windows system often involves utilizing a virtual machine or compatibility mode. Direct installation can be complex due to underlying system changes.

Virtualization as a Solution

One effective method is to employ a virtual machine. This allows you to run an older operating system, complete with the desired Internet Explorer version, within your current Windows environment.

Popular virtualization software options include VirtualBox and VMware. These programs create isolated environments, preventing conflicts with your host operating system.

Compatibility Mode Considerations

While not a full installation, Windows' built-in compatibility mode can sometimes render older websites correctly. However, its effectiveness varies depending on the specific website and Internet Explorer version.

To access compatibility mode, right-click the Internet Explorer icon, select "Properties," and navigate to the "Compatibility" tab. From there, you can specify compatibility settings for particular websites.

Resources and Further Assistance

For detailed instructions and community-driven solutions, explore the original SuperUser thread. It contains valuable insights and troubleshooting tips from experienced users.

Remember to exercise caution when downloading and installing software from the internet. Always verify the source and scan files for potential malware.

Addressing a Compatibility Challenge

A SuperUser user, Jsalonen, has presented a common web development issue. He is developing a web application on a Windows 8 operating system.

Despite utilizing the most recent version of Internet Explorer, testing compatibility with older browsers – specifically IE7 and IE8 – is crucial for his project.

The Core Question

Jsalonen's primary concern is whether it's feasible to operate these older iterations of Internet Explorer within the Windows 8 environment.

Exploring Potential Solutions

Several approaches can be taken to establish a legacy testing environment for Internet Explorer on a Windows 8 system.

Virtualization: A Robust Method

Employing virtualization software represents a highly effective solution. Programs like VirtualBox or VMware allow users to create virtual machines.

Within these virtual machines, older versions of Windows – and consequently, IE7 and IE8 – can be installed and executed independently of the host operating system.

Using Compatibility Mode

Internet Explorer itself offers a Compatibility Mode. This feature attempts to render web pages as they would appear in older browser versions.

However, it's important to note that Compatibility Mode isn't always perfect and may not accurately replicate the behavior of IE7 or IE8 in all scenarios.

Dedicated Testing Tools

BrowserStack and Sauce Labs are cloud-based testing platforms. These services provide access to a wide range of browsers and operating systems, including legacy versions of Internet Explorer.

This eliminates the need for local installation and configuration, offering a convenient and scalable testing solution.

Considerations for Jsalonen

For Jsalonen’s specific situation, virtualization likely provides the most accurate and reliable testing environment.

While Compatibility Mode and dedicated testing tools offer alternatives, they may not fully capture the nuances of rendering in older IE versions.

Solutions for Running Legacy Internet Explorer Versions

Multiple users on SuperUser offered valuable suggestions to assist Jsalonen with their query. HackToHell proposes utilizing virtual machines as the most straightforward approach.

Employing virtual machines provides an efficient solution. Hyper-V and the VHD images supplied by Microsoft – or alternatively, a third-party application such as VirtualBox – can be leveraged.

Initially, configure Hyper-V following the instructions detailed by Kronos, which can be found here.

Subsequently, download the appropriate VHD images directly from Microsoft. This allows for the creation of a virtual machine dedicated to each desired version of Internet Explorer.

Launching the VHD

Initiate the Hyper-V Manager and proceed to establish a new virtual machine.

Specify the virtual machine's name, memory allocation, and other relevant details. Then, when prompted for the hard disk image, select the option to utilize an existing hard disk.

Finalize the setup, and the virtual machine containing the legacy Internet Explorer versions will be available.

A comprehensive tutorial detailing the process of launching individual virtual machines is available on HowToGeek here.

Megaperlz recommends an alternative, a dedicated standalone application:

For those seeking a self-contained testing tool, BrowseEmAll presents a viable option. It enables the concurrent execution of Internet Explorer versions 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Further solutions can be found within the complete SuperUser discussion thread available here. Readers are encouraged to share their own methods and insights in the comments section below.