If you still did not move too far superior browsers and stuck using IE, you will be happy to learn that the outdated Microsoft’s browser allows you to improve security. While it is still lacking in many departments, the feature will make web surfing slightly safer. The feature is called Enhanced Protected Mode.
Enabling the mode
The feature has been around since the conception of Windows 8. When in this mode, Internet Explorer usually creates so-called AppContainers in which it runs websites safely. The container “contains” web content and prevents it from infecting your PC if it has any malicious components. The feature is quite efficient but does not work on Windows 7.
To enable the mode, you will need to go to the settings page of Internet Explorer and enable it in the Advanced/Security section of the menu. Note that it may not work properly with other apps and add-ons that may interact with the mode. A 64-bit version of the mode is also something you need to turn on.
The mode will shut down some add-ons that break security rules so expect some problems with your favorite apps and extensions that you came to love.
Turn off add-ons
The vast majority of add-ons are harmless and can be even useful. However, there is a strong possibility that a malicious add-on will create a significant threat to your cybersecurity. Sadly, even Adobe Flash installed on millions of machines across the globe is a plug-in vulnerable to attacks and exploits. You can turn off all add-ons and some plug-ins by using the browser in the “no extensions” mode.
In order to activate the mode, press WINDOWS + R and in the command line enter exactly: “explore –extoff”.
If you want to keep your add-ons managed and organized, you can go to the “Manage Add-ons” section of the main menu and take a look at the list of available plug-ins and extensions. You can enable and disable them whenever you need them.
Installing anti-exploit apps
Anti-exploit is a tool that will protect your browser and its extensions from cyber-attacks in real-time. While Chrome and Firefox are slightly less vulnerable, Internet Explorer suffers from a variety of vulnerabilities. If you do not want to upgrade, consider purchasing an app that will protect your browser.
Update the browser systematically
Check for updates whenever you are opening the browser. While Windows 10 is updated automatically, users of older Microsoft systems will have to check for updates manually. Internet Explorer is still one of the most frequently attacked browsers so keep it updated.
Lastly, just stop using this ancient piece of software and upgrade to more advanced browsers. Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and even Edge are far superior in terms of safety.
