Internet Explorer, once a dominant web browser, has been gradually phased out by Microsoft in favor of its newer and more advanced browser, Microsoft Edge. However, many users still rely on Internet Explorer for certain websites or applications. Unfortunately, the “Internet Explorer has stopped working” error is a common issue that can be frustrating to deal with. In this article, we’ll explore several methods to help you fix this problem and get your Internet Explorer back up and running smoothly.
Method 1: Reset Internet Explorer Settings
One of the easiest ways to resolve the “Internet Explorer has stopped working” error is to reset the browser’s settings to their default state. Here’s how to do it:
Open Internet Explorer and select Tools > Internet options.
Select the Advanced tab, and then select Reset.
In the Reset Internet Explorer settings dialog box, select Reset.
When Internet Explorer finishes applying the default settings, select Close > OK.
Restart your PC to apply the changes.
Method 2: Disable Add-ons
Third-party add-ons can sometimes cause conflicts with Internet Explorer, leading to the “has stopped working” error. To troubleshoot this issue, try disabling all add-ons and then re-enabling them one by one to identify the culprit:
Open Internet Explorer and select Tools > Manage add-ons.
In the Manage Add-ons window, select each add-on and click Disable.
Restart Internet Explorer and check if the error persists.
If the error is resolved, re-enable the add-ons one by one to identify the problematic one.
Method 3: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated or faulty graphics drivers can also contribute to the “Internet Explorer has stopped working” error. To update your graphics drivers:
Open the Start menu and search for Device Manager.
Expand the Display adapters section and right-click on your graphics card.
Select Update driver and follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest driver version.
Restart your computer and launch Internet Explorer to see if the error has been resolved.
Method 4: Run Internet Explorer Troubleshooter
Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix common Internet Explorer issues. To run the troubleshooter:
Open the Start menu and search for Internet Explorer troubleshooter.
Select Run the Internet Explorer troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
Restart Internet Explorer and check if the error has been resolved.
Method 5: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot can help eliminate potential conflicts caused by third-party software or services. To perform a clean boot:
Open the Start menu and search for System Configuration.
In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab and check the Hide all Microsoft services box.
Click Disable all and then go to the Startup tab.
Click Open Task Manager, select each startup item, and click Disable.
Close the Task Manager and System Configuration windows.
Restart your computer and launch Internet Explorer.
Method 6: Reinstall Internet Explorer
If none of the above methods work, you may need to reinstall Internet Explorer. Here’s how to do it:
Open the Start menu and search for Programs and Features.
In the Programs and Features window, click Turn Windows features on or off.
In the Windows Features window, uncheck the Internet Explorer 11 box and click OK.
Wait for Windows to remove Internet Explorer and then restart your computer.
Repeat steps 1-3, but this time check the Internet Explorer 11 box and click OK.
Wait for Windows to reinstall Internet Explorer and then launch the browser.
In conclusion, the “Internet Explorer has stopped working” error can be a frustrating issue, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can usually resolve it. Try the methods outlined in this article, and if none of them work, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft Support or a qualified IT professional.