How to Repair Internet Explorer on My PC

As with any other software, Internet Explorer can be prone to errors and other issues. While the issues themselves can be frustrating, Microsoft makes fixing and repairing Internet Explorer simple. There are options from fully automated fixes to manual tweaks that will get Internet Explorer up and running.

Instructions

1. Disable your browser add-ons. Sometimes browser issues are the result of outdated or conflicting add-ons. To disable add-ons go to "Start > All Programs > System Tools > Internet Explorer (No Add-ons)." If you find that you able to run Internet Explorer without add-ons, you have the choice to delete, disable or temporarily enable your add-ons when you need them. In Internet Explorer you can choose "Tool" and then "Manage Add-ons," to narrow down the error-causing add-on.

2. Reset Internet Explorer. If it isn't an add-on error, then you can try to reset Explorer. Resetting Internet Explorer will still keep your favorites or feeds; it simply brings Internet Explorer back to its default settings.

   To manually reset in Internet Explorer 8, open Internet Explorer and follow the path "Tools > Internet Options > Advanced > Reset." If you want to delete your browsing history and preferred search providers check the "Delete Personal Settings" option. Under "Reset Internet Explorer Settings" select "Reset." Internet Explorer will begin resetting and after it's finished select "Close" and "OK." Exit out of Internet Explorer and then reopen for the update changes.

   In Internet Explorer 7, open Internet Explorer and follow the path "Tool > Internet Options > Advanced > Reset." Under "Reset Internet Explorer Settings," select "Reset." Wait for it to finish and select "Close" and "OK." Exit out of Internet Explorer and then reopen.

3. Update your Windows service pack. Check to make sure that your service pack is current. If not, you can go to Microsoft's Update website (see Resources) to bring your computer up-to-date.

4. Uninstall and reinstall Internet Explorer if none of the steps solved the Internet Explorer issues. Once you uninstall, you can then do a fresh install of Internet Explorer.

Tips & Warnings

• Run Microsoft's Fix It Automated Troubleshooting Services to automatically diagnose and fix problems in Internet Explorer (see Resources).

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer in Windows Vista and Windows XP
• Windows: Reset Internet Explorer 7 Settings
• Windows: Reset Internet Explorer 8 Settings
• Windows: Tips for Solving Problems with Internet Explorer

Resources

• Microsoft: Update Center
• Microsoft: Automated Troubleshooting Services (Fix It)