Why did my Internet Explorer stop working? This is a common issue faced by many users who rely on Microsoft’s web browser for their daily internet activities. Internet Explorer has been a staple in the Windows operating system for years, but it has faced numerous problems, including sudden malfunctions and crashes. In this article, we will explore the possible reasons behind this issue and provide you with some solutions to get your Internet Explorer up and running again.
One of the most common reasons why Internet Explorer stops working is due to outdated software. As technology advances, so does the need for updates. If you haven’t updated your Internet Explorer to the latest version, it may encounter compatibility issues with newer websites and applications. To resolve this, simply visit the Microsoft website and download the latest version of Internet Explorer. Once installed, restart your computer to ensure the updates take effect.
Another reason for Internet Explorer’s malfunction could be the presence of malware or viruses on your computer. These malicious programs can corrupt your browser’s files and cause it to crash or stop working altogether. To address this, run a full system scan using a reputable antivirus software. Make sure to update your antivirus definitions before running the scan to detect the latest threats. If any malware is detected, follow the recommended steps to remove it from your system.
Browser cache and cookies can also cause Internet Explorer to malfunction. These temporary files are stored on your computer to improve browsing speed and enhance the user experience. However, over time, they can accumulate and cause conflicts with your browser. To clear your cache and cookies, follow these steps:
1. Open Internet Explorer and click on the gear icon in the upper-right corner to access the settings menu.
2. Select “Internet Options” from the menu.
3. Go to the “General” tab and click on “Delete.”
4. Check the boxes for “Temporary Internet files and website files” and “Cookies and website data.”
5. Click “Delete” to remove the files.
Additionally, corrupted system files can lead to Internet Explorer’s failure. To fix this, you can use the System File Checker tool, which scans for and repairs corrupted files in your Windows installation. To run the tool, follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the list.
2. Type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete. If any corrupted files are found, the tool will attempt to repair them automatically.
Lastly, if none of the above solutions work, it may be time to consider uninstalling and reinstalling Internet Explorer. This can help resolve any underlying issues that may have caused the browser to stop working. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + X and select “Programs and Features” from the list.
2. Find Internet Explorer in the list of installed programs and click on it.
3. Select “Uninstall” and follow the prompts to remove the browser from your system.
4. Restart your computer and visit the Microsoft website to download and install the latest version of Internet Explorer.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why your Internet Explorer might have stopped working. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to identify the cause of the problem and take the necessary actions to restore your browser to its normal functioning state. Remember to keep your system and browser up to date, run regular scans for malware, and clear your cache and cookies to prevent future issues.
