Microsoft Internet Explorer (MIE) is the most popular Web browser in the world today hence its vulnerability to problems such as virus attacks, system crashes and so on. Unfortunately, there are so many versions of MIE hence problems and faults could arise as a result of so many factors. However, this article will focus on issues relating to MIE 6, 7 and 8 in Windows XP and Vista operating systems (OS).
Common problems associated with MIE are caused by malicious attacks, missing critical registration information or damaged files. Malicious attacks include virus-compromise and browser hijacking – a process where hackers hijack a computers browser and changes how it displays on the Internet for example, through manipulation of homepage settings, making it difficult to access secure websites such as AVG, Sophos anti-virus, remote adware installation, etc. Fortunately, these type of attack can be dealt with by doing the following.
- Ensure that your computer/operating system and browsers are updated regularly.
- You must also have a functional and up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spyware on your computer.
- Avoid visiting dodgy websites and downloads.
Furthermore, damaged files or missing browser information can be easily replaced by repairing the MIE program as follows.
- Go to the ‘Tools’ menu on the MIE toolbar, click ‘Internet Options’, ‘Advanced’ and ‘Reset’.
Reinstalling the browser, however, is not always a straightforward process as explained below.
- Visit the Microsoft Download Centre page on the official Microsoft Web site, search for the version (the current version is recommended) of MIE you want to install, click the download or run button and install the browser on your computer.
Although following the above steps usually resolve MIE problems, alternative troubleshooting can be carried out by visiting the Microsoft Help and Support Web site. I have found this site particularly useful in solving Internet explorer issues with its step-by-step analytic approach.