Windows 8
Internet Explorer
Using Internet Explorer
Internet Explorer—also known as IE—is the default web browser in Windows 8. While IE offers many of the same features you would expect to find in any browser, the simplified interface may be a little confusing at first. In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the address bar, open and move between tabs, and save your favorite websites for quick access. We'll also talk about how to clear your browsing history.
Windows 8 comes with two versions of IE, with an app for both the Start screen and the Desktop. This lesson will focus on the Start screen app. The Desktop version of IE offers a more traditional web browsing experience, as well as advanced options for bookmarking and privacy. Check out our lesson on Getting Started with the Desktop to learn more about using Desktop apps.
Getting started with IE:
- To open IE, locate and select Internet Explorer on the Start screen. IE will appear.
Opening IE
Click the buttons in the interactive below to become more familiar with the IE interface.
Back Button
Click the Back button to move backward in your browsing history.
Address Bar
Right-click the mouse to see the address bar, which you'll use to navigate to a website or conduct a web search. Frequently visited sites and suggestions will appear as you type.
Refresh Button
Click the Refresh button to reload the current page.
If a webpage doesn't load properly, the Refresh button will change temporarily to the Stop button. Click this button to stop a webpage from loading.
Tabs Buttons
Click the Tabs button to view all open tabs.
Favorites Button
Click here to access the Favorites bar, where you can view and add favorites. You can also pin websites to the Start screen.
Page Tools Button
Click the Page tools button to search for content on the current page, view downloads, or open the Desktop version of IE.
Forward Button
Click the Forward button to move forward in your browsing history.
Tabs
You can open multiple websites at the same time using tabs.
Right-click the mouse to see tabs that are currently open.
To close a tab, click the Close Tab button in the corner of each open tab
New Tab Button
Click here to open a new tab.
Tab Options Button
Click here to to reopen a closed tab or to open an InPrivate window. An InPrivate window will not track your browsing history.
Tabs Bar
Whenever you are interacting with a website, the tabs bar and address bar will disappear.
To re-open them, just right-click anywhere on the screen, or swipe up from the bottom if you're using a touch-screen.
