Internet Explorer Error Tips

by Rachael Smithey

Overview

When using the Internet Explorer browser, you may encounter browser error messages, Web pages that do not display properly and network connection errors. The Internet Explorer browser settings may cause some of the errors, while the coding of the visited website or problems with network connectivity may cause others.
Cache, History and Cookies

Internet Explorer helps personalize your Internet use by storing visited websites and personal information in its cache, history and cookie files. These convenient features can, however, cause the display of outdated pages or make personal information available to other users of your computer. To ensure the displayed page is the most current version, clear the Internet Explorer cache as needed by going under the menu option "Tools -- Internet Options" as needed. Clear the history when using a shared computer to ensure privacy. Tracking cookies contain personal and session information from websites you visit. These websites may greet you with "Welcome back (your name)" on your next visit. To ensure privacy, delete cookies as needed by going under "Tools -- Internet Options." Clearing the cache, history and cookies also frees up space on your computer, allowing it to run more efficiently.

Compatibility View

Websites coded for older browsers may not function properly in newer browsers. If you visit a website using Internet Explorer 8 or newer and find that drop-down menus do not work, images and text overlap, or the browser repeatedly crashes, use IE Compatibility View to re-enable the website's features. Simply visit the website and click on the IE Compatibility View button next to the address bar. The browser will display the website correctly and retain this setting for future visits.
Access Denied/File Not Found

Websites sometimes change their site organization and structures, so pages may move or no longer exist. Websites also may change Web page permissions to restrict public access to specific content. Truncate the URL (e.g., change http://www.microsoft.com/en/ to http://www.microsoft.com/) or look for the website's site map, which is typically labeled "Site Directory/Map," to find the page you need.
Internet Explorer Cannot Display the Webpage

Network connections can drop unexpectedly. To determine if the error message "Internet Explorer Cannot Display the Webpage" is network related, try accessing two or three other websites. If the error continues to display, run the Internet Explorer Network Diagnostics tool by clicking the "Diagnose Connection Problems" link displayed on the error page.

References & Resources