Downgrade to Internet Explorer 6

Although the majority of users have found the updates to Internet Explorer to be a worthwhile overhaul of features and security, some have experienced problems with their upgraded web browser. Whether you simply find the new design clunky, or cannot run a piece of software on IE 7, there is no reason you should be stuck with an upgrade you don't like. This how-to will detail the steps necessary to rollback Internet Explorer from version 7 to version 6.

Steps

  1. Go to the Start menu and click on Control Panel.
  2. Click on “Add or Remove Programs".
  3. Click on the “Show updates” check box.
  4. Click on the current version of Internet Explorer and select “Remove”.
  5. In the program removal wizard, click “Next” to continue.
  6. Click on the “Finish” button and restart your computer. After restarting, you will find Internet Explorer 6 in your computer.

Tips

  • If you simply do not like the interface of IE 7, 8 or 9, consider a competitor like Firefox or Google Chrome. Due to security issues, most "current generation" browsers are preferable to older counterparts.
  • You can easily upgrade to the latest version of IE again by visiting the Microsoft Internet Explorer Website. However, you may lose functionality if you "jump" between versions.
  • If you are downgrading due to software compatibility issues, be sure to check the programs developer site first. Workarounds may be possible or patches may be available. Since later versions of IE are more secure than IE 6, these options are preferable to rolling back the software. Community sites may also have "unofficial" workarounds.
  • If you need to use IE 6 for a certain piece of software, but do not like the web browsing design, consider using an alternative like Firefox or Google Chrome for your internet surfing.

Warnings

  • If you have bought a new computer with the latest version of IE already installed, you may not be able to "rollback" to version 6.
  • Some web developers no longer bother to make their web sites compatible with IE 6. As time goes by, new websites may break.
  • The steps above apply to Windows XP users only. Windows 98 or Vista users may not achieve optimal results.
  • Although downgrading generally restores the functionality of old toolbars and favorite places, this is not a guarantee. Software installed for later versions of IE may not function properly after a roll back.
  • Rolling back to IE 6 will leave you vulnerable to exploits and security compromises corrected in later versions. If the choice is simply a matter of taste, it would be wise to accept the upgrade. As time passes, it is generally accepted that Microsoft will not focus time on the improvement of IE 6 security, leaving the browser increasingly vulnerable.
  • Be aware this may not always work. Just to be on the safe side you should download and install another browser like Firefox, in case the "rollback" doesn't work and you're stuck with no web browser.

Related Articles

  • Uninstall Internet Explorer 7

Sources and Citations

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