How to Turn Off Flash in IE

Flash powers many Internet media applications.

Disabling Flash in Internet Explorer requires using the browser's "Manage Add-ons" interface, but turning off the plugin will leave you unable to see much of what the Web has to offer. Adobe's Flash platform powers many of the multimedia applications you see on the Internet, from videos to games to those annoying animated banner ads. However, while the technology has made it easier for video producers and game makers alike to create content for the Web, not everyone wants to be constantly bombarded with moving, talking media. Turning off Flash's functionality rather than completely un-installing the program lets you re-activate the plugin when desired.

Instructions

1. Open Internet Explorer. Click "Tools," and then "Manage Add-ons." The "Manage Add-ons" window appears.

2. Locate the "Show" field in the left navigation pane. Click the arrow to the right of the current selection, and then choose "All Add-ons" from the drop-down list.

3. Scroll down the list of add-ons until you find the "Adobe Systems Incorporated" group. Click on "Shockwave Flash Object" in the Adobe group to bring up Flash's plugin options in the bottom pane.

4. Click the "Disable" button to turn off Flash in IE.

Tips & Warnings

• You can re-enable Flash by repeating the procedure. The "Disable" button will be replaced by an "Enable" button.

• Adobe's PDF plugin for Internet Explorer appears in the "Adobe Systems, Incorporated" group. Don't become confused when you don't see Flash in this group. You want the "Adobe Systems Incorporated" group -- without the extra comma.

References

• Windows: How Do Browser Add-ons Affect My Computer?
• Microsoft Answers: Controlling Flash Player in IE8