Microsoft Internet Explorer 1[]
1995–2006[]
Badge
Icon (1995-1997, IE1-IE4)
Alternate icon (1995-1997, IE1-IE4)
Microsoft Internet Explorer 2[]
1995–2006[]
Alternate version
Microsoft Internet Explorer 3[]
1996–2006[]
Symbol (1996-2006)
Print symbol (1996-2011)
Small logo
Animated alternative small logo
Animated alternative small logo
Microsoft Internet Explorer 4 Beta[]
Used in Memphis builds 1351-1569.
Microsoft Internet Explorer 4–7 Beta[]
1997–2006[]
Merchandise variant
Icon (256 colors) (Windows 95/NT 4.0)
Icon (True Color) (Windows 95/NT 4.0/98/2000/ME)
Internet Explorer 4 version
Horizontal Internet Explorer 4 version
Internet Explorer 4 logo used on its about screen in Windows 95 OSR 2.5
Internet Explorer 4 symbol
Print Internet Explorer 4 symbol
Intenet Explorer 4 badge
Internet Explorer 5 version
Internet Explorer 5 logo used on its about screen in Windows 98 Second Edition
Internet Explorer 5 logo used on its about screen in Windows 2000
Internet Explorer 5.5-6 logo used on its about screen in Windows ME and XP
Alternate print Internet Explorer 5.5-6 logo
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6–7 Beta[]
2001–2006[]
Internet Explorer 6 version
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 Beta[]
2005–2006[]
Print version (only filed as a trademark during Longhorn’s beta stage)
Logo with wordmark
Windows Internet Explorer 7–8[]
2006–2011[]
Internet Explorer 7 version
Internet Explorer 8 version
Internet Explorer 7 version used on its about screen in Windows Vista
Internet Explorer 8 version used on its about screen in Windows 7
Windows Phone 7 version
Windows Internet Explorer 9-11[]
2011–2022[]
Print version
Inverted version used on Windows 8/8.1 Start screen
Alternate icon
Developer Channel variant
Internet Explorer 9 version
Internet Explorer 9 version used on its about screen in Windows 7
Internet Explorer 10 version
Internet Explorer 11 version
|
V • T • E Microsoft |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apps, Software and Web Services
microsoft.com | Account | Authenticator | Bing (Maps) | Copilot (Copilot+ PC) | Edge | GroupMe | Launcher | Math Solver | Movies & TV | Outlook.com (Calendar | Tasks) | Reflect | Skype | SwiftKey | To Do
Business
Development Gaming
Hardware Conventions Other
Defunct/Discontinued
Notes:
|
|
V • T • E Windows |
||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part of Microsoft
Current
Defunct/Deprecated
Notes
|
A Few Words about Internet Explorer
Before we begin the analysis of the Internet Explorer logo, let’s take a closer look at the story behind this browser, as loved as it is hated. In 1995, the Internet Explorer appeared as a paid option for Microsoft’s Windows 95. The browser was then directly integrated into Windows 98 resulting in it being used a lot more. In the years that followed, Internet Explorer became the most important internet browser before being overtaken by Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari and Google Chrome in 2010. In 2015, as the competition became fierce, Microsoft banked on a new app called Edge and slowly moved away from the out-of-date Internet Explorer.
The First Logos of Internet Explorer
The first logos of Internet Explorer were very much related to Microsoft. In fact, initially, it was only a product for Windows. However, over the years the web browser developed its own brand identity. From 1995 to 1997, the Microsoft Internet Explorer composition was used with three logos. These three logos were also created during a short period of time, the three being combined logos: the company name with a graphic. However, the third Internet Explorer logo, the 1996 version, saw the arrival of the E we know so well. Starting in 1997, Microsoft was removed keeping only the graphic for future versions of the logo.
The Logo Over Time
From 1997, the Internet Explorer logo remained fairly unchanged. There would be different versions, but it was always easy to recognize the web browser’s blue E accompanied by a slightly slanted circle that crossed over the E. This type of logo was a symbol logo which other large companies were using like Apple and MasterCard. Symbol logos have the distinction of being associated with strong brand images as they are recognized with no company name attached.
In 2001, the blue logo of Internet Explorer would get a slight 3D effect with the addition of shadows to give the appearance of depth. This would be accentuated in the 2006 version. The circle surrounding the E would change to yellow with this version. This would finally be simplified with the 2011 and 2012 redesigns. The yellow would also disappear to leave only the blue.
Source: Versionmuseum.com
The Arrival of Edge and The New Brand Identity
What better way to relaunch a product than to do a complete overhaul? This is exactly what Microsoft did when it launched Edge: the successor to Internet Explorer in 2015. The first Logo of the Edge browser was very similar to that of Internet Explorer. It was composed of a blue E, although it was not the same shade as previous versions. The major difference between the two versions was the ellipse that had once accompanied the letter. The Edge logo used the concept of a circle to create sharp ends. This made some sense since the word edge means contour or sharp. Of course, this is a nod to the Internet Explorer logo. One might even think that this was a new version of the original product.
In 2019, Microsoft would finally step out of the ordinary with the redesign of the Edge logo. For once, it didn’t look like it’s hundredth redesign of the original logo. This time, the logo was more circular in shape. You can see a wave or even the letter E, which remains the common thread between all the versions of these logos for Internet Explorer and Edge. However, it is not so much the shape that attracts attention, but the use of several different shades for the first time. We go from blue to turquoise to green. It is important to mention that shading is one of the biggest trends for logos right now, especially on the web. We only have to mention the Instagram logo as an example. However, the use of a shading for an Internet browser is reminiscent of the Mozilla Firefox logo, one of its competitors. In short, whether you like it or not, it’s still a very different redesign from the last few versions.
Source: Underconsideration.com
How to Draw Inspiration from Internet Explorer or Edge for Your Redesign
There are many ways to be inspired by the branding of Internet Explorer and Edge. First, their logos have often been simple and representative which is perfect for the digital world. It is also worth noting that blue is one of the most used colors for logos. This is because blue is associated with both knowledge and trust, in addition to being one of the most beloved colors in general. As well, don’t hesitate to do minor redesigns of your logo to adapt it to the times and trends. Keep important elements to create a connection between versions, as Internet Explorer has done over the years. This is in part a desire to maintain an up-to-date brand image.
In conclusion, we hope you were able to satisfy your curiosity by discovering the story behind the various logos of Internet Explorer and Edge. Regarding the new redesign, what do you think? Do you like the audacity of several different shades or on the contrary is it too showy? If you need more inspiration, at the evolution of the Amazon symbol over the years.
Sources:
https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_Explorer
https://www.theverge.com/2019/11/2/20944341/microsoft-edge-chromium-browser-logo-icon-wave-surf-new
Try our logo maker to design a logo you love in minutes.
The Internet Explorer (IE) is a web browser from the stable of Microsoft that was created in 1995. It was meant for the Windows operating system and became an independent program later. As one of the earliest web browsers, Internet Explorer played a crucial role in shaping the internet landscape. However, in 2022, Microsoft decided to stop supporting the browser. The logo of the Internet Explorer has undergone several changes since its inception. This article delves into the history and evolution of the Internet Explorer logo and highlights key design changes that have taken place over the years.
The Genesis of the Internet Explorer Logo (1995)
The journey of the Internet Explorer logo began with the release of Internet Explorer 1.0, on August 16, 1995. The initial logo featured a globe representing Earth alongside the text “Microsoft Internet Explorer.” The colour palette for the earth was grey and calm blue-white, while for the text, it was dark blue with green accents.
The word “Microsoft” in a smaller size was placed on the top right corner of the globe. The word “Internet Explorer” in a title case appeared to grow bigger as it extended to the right. This design was heavily influenced by Microsoft’s branding at the time, which emphasised its connection to the Windows operating system.
(1995 – 1996)
Shortly after, Internet Explorer 2.0 was launched in November 1995. This version included a two-level nameplate and the Microsoft emblem enclosed in a circle and placed on the right. The two-level nameplate with a thin line in between had “Microsoft” rendered in an elegant font above and “Internet Explorer” in a bold sans-serif typeface below. The Microsoft emblem, comprising the four-coloured flag, was enclosed in a circle and placed on the top right corner of the logo.
(1996 – 2001)
The release of Internet Explorer 3.0 on August 13, 1996, marked an important milestone as it introduced the now-iconic lowercase “e” emblem in blue on the right. This blue “e” was accompanied by a diagonal orbiting ring to symbolise connectivity and the internet itself. The nameplate on the left was retained from the previous iteration with the letters made bigger and bolder. This design was important as it established a recognisable brand image that would endure for years.
(1996 – 2006)
The logo underwent slight modifications in 1996 with the release of IE 4.0. The colour of the letter “e” with the orbiting ring became lighter blue, and its contour was refined to enhance visibility and aesthetics. This iteration strengthened the logo’s status as a standalone symbol of Microsoft’s web browser.
(2001 – 2006)
In 2001, Internet Explorer 5.0 introduced a three-dimensional effect to the logo by adding shadows to create depth. This version featured a vibrant gradient blue colour for the “e” emblem to make it more visually appealing and friendly to users.
(2003) (Unused)
The logo remained largely unchanged with Internet Explorer 6.0. The emphasis remained on clarity and recognition, which was tried by adding shadows to create volume. The emblem looked three-dimensional and glossy and acquired a purple and greenish tint as well.
(2005) (Unused)
A significant redesign occurred in 2005 with the introduction of a glossy three-dimensional logo. This version saw a glossy purple “e” in lowercase with the orbiting ring appearing to be closed. The glossy “e” also had light blue gradients and retained the shade of the previous logo
(2006 – 2010)
This logo version saw a darker outline for the “e” emblem and the colour of the orbiting ring and its shadow changed to yellow. This gave the logo a more dynamic look compared to its predecessors.
(2010 – 2022)
This logo variant introduced lighter colours for both the “e” and its orbiting ring. Besides, the typeface of “e” was also made fresher and crisper. This iteration aimed to modernise the logo while retaining its core identity.
(2011 – 2022)
Internet Explorer 9.0 was released in March 2011, which saw another change in the logo. The logo was simplified into a flat light blue icon, which was similar to the earlier designs but featured cleaner lines and contours.
The Elements of the Internet Explorer Logo
Font
The Internet Explorer logo had the full text in its early variants. The text used a bold font in lowercase. However, the text disappeared with the logo design in 1997, when only the letter “e” in lowercase remained.
Colour
The colour palette of the Internet Explorer logo constituted blue and its various shades. These include azure, cornflower blue, celestial, and sapphire. In fact, the colours green and black were also used in the beginning, and white has adorned the background.
The History of Internet Explorer
Internet Explorer (IE) is a web browser developed by Microsoft and released on August 16, 1995, as part of the Plus! add-on package for Windows 95. The development of IE began in the summer of 1994, and the project was led by Thomas Reardon. He based the browser on technology licensed from Spyglass, Inc., which had its roots in the earlier Mosaic browser created by the National Centre for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA).
The initial version, Internet Explorer 1.0, was relatively basic, but it had set the stage for future developments. By November 1995, Microsoft released Internet Explorer 2.0, which introduced support for secure sockets layer (SSL) encryption and cookies. The subsequent version, Internet Explorer 3.0, launched in August 1996, included features like Java applets and cascading style sheets (CSS). These enhanced web pages design and functionality to a great extent.
The late 1990s marked a significant period known as the Browser Wars, where Internet Explorer emerged as a dominant force against competitors like Netscape Navigator. By bundling IE with Windows operating systems, Microsoft rapidly increased its market share. In fact, it reached approximately 90% by 2003-2004.
This dominance led to antitrust scrutiny. So, in 1998, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Microsoft for violating antitrust laws. It accused Microsoft of leveraging its Windows monopoly to stifle competition in the browser market. Although the courts found Microsoft guilty of violating the Sherman Antitrust Act, they did not impose a breakup order.
Despite its early success, Internet Explorer began to lose ground in the mid-2000s with the rise of competitors such as Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome. Firefox introduced features that appealed to users, such as tabbed browsing and enhanced security measures. By 2010, IE’s market share had dropped to around 50%. Microsoft attempted to revitalise IE with new versions, but these efforts were overshadowed by the rapid advancements made by its competitors.
In 2015, Microsoft launched Windows 10, which featured Microsoft Edge as its default browser. This signalled a shift away from Internet Explorer. Further, the official support for Internet Explorer ended on June 15, 2022, thereby marking a definitive close to its era.
Internet Explorer played a crucial role in shaping the web browsing landscape during its peak years. It introduced many features that became standard across browsers today and facilitated widespread internet access among users worldwide. Although it has been retired, its legacy continues through Microsoft Edge and the ongoing evolution of web technologies.
Interesting Facts About Internet Explorer
- Internet Explorer (IE) was launched on August 16, 1995, as part of the Plus! add-on package for Windows 95.
- Internet Explorer became the most popular web browser by overtaking Netscape Navigator in 1999. Its market share reached a whopping 95% by 2003.
- The Internet Explorer project began under the leadership of the computer engineer, Thomas Reardon.
- The Internet Explorer project comprised only 5 individuals initially. However, the team strength grew to 100 within a year.
- The Internet Explorer project was called by the code name “O’Hare,” which happened to be the largest airport in Chicago.
- Microsoft invested heavily in Internet Explorer during its prime. It spent over $100 million per year in the late 1990s, with more than 1,000 employees involved in its development by 1999.
- The aim of Internet Explorer was to replicate Netscape Navigator, the most popular of the time, and then surpass it.
- The browser was at the centre of a major antitrust lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice in 1998. The lawsuit accused Microsoft of stifling competition by bundling IE with Windows. This legal battle highlighted the browser’s role in Microsoft’s overall strategy to dominate the software market.
- Over its lifetime, Internet Explorer went through 11 major versions. The updates saw the introduction of features like tabbed browsing, enhanced security options, and support for modern web standards such as HTML5.
- Although officially retired on June 15, 2022, Internet Explorer remains available in a limited capacity through Microsoft Edge’s IE mode. It allows users to access legacy applications and websites that require older web technologies.
- Besides Windows, Internet Explorer was also available on other platforms, including Mac OS and UNIX systems.
- Internet Explorer had versions for gaming consoles like the Xbox 360, which showcased its versatility during its operational years.
- Internet Explorer faced significant criticism for security vulnerabilities. Many users reported issues related to malware and phishing attacks due to its ActiveX technology and other features that were susceptible to exploitation.
- By 2023, Internet Explorer had fallen to a mere 0.45% market share. This made IE the least used desktop browser as users migrated to more modern alternatives like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
- Internet Explorer was discontinued in 2022 with the company stopped giving developer support.
Finally
The Internet Explorer logo and its various versions reflect changes in design trends and shifts in technology and user expectations over nearly two decades. From its initial representation of Earth to a sleek, modern icon symbolising connectivity, each iteration has contributed to IE’s identity as one of the most recognised web browsers in history.
The Internet Explorer logo has undergone several transformations since its inception in 1995. This article explores the Internet Explorer logo meaning and history behind each version of the logo. We’ll dive into its design changes, the symbolism of different elements, and how these shifts reflected the browser’s journey through the years.
Create your own logo with Turbologo logo maker. It takes less than 5 minutes and no design skills needed.
Go to Logo Maker
Internet Explorer, launched in 1995, quickly rose to prominence, achieving a peak market share of over 90% by 2003 due to its integration with Windows and competitive positioning against rival browsers.
The logo of Internet Explorer evolved significantly over the years, shifting from a globe symbol to a lowercase ‘e’ and finally to a modernized design, reflecting the changing trends in branding and the browser’s commitment to innovation.
The history of Internet Explorer’s logo illustrates key design principles such as the importance of simplicity, recognizability, and modernization, which are essential for creating impactful brand identities in a competitive market.
The Birth of Internet Explorer
The birth of Internet Explorer in 1995 marked a significant milestone in the history of web browsers. Initially launched as part of the Windows 95 Plus! Pack, Internet Explorer was developed by a dedicated team led by Thomas Reardon. This new browser aimed to provide users with a seamless and integrated internet experience, leveraging the growing popularity of the Windows operating system.
Competing against established browsers like Netscape, the early days of Internet Explorer were characterized by rapid development and fierce competition. The major browser wars intensified as new players like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox entered the scene, each vying for dominance in the market. Despite these challenges, by 2003, Internet Explorer had reached a peak usage share of over 90%, solidifying its place as the leading web browser of its time.
The integration with the Windows operating system was a key factor in Internet Explorer’s success, offering users a familiar and convenient browsing experience. Understanding the context in which this iconic browser was created and the competitive landscape it navigated is crucial to appreciating the history and evolution of the Internet Explorer logo.
The First Logo (1995)
The first Internet Explorer logo, introduced in 1995, was a reflection of the browser’s ambition to conquer the digital world. This initial design featured an image of Earth, symbolizing the global reach and connectivity that the internet promised. The globe was depicted in calm gray and white colors, creating a sense of stability and reliability.
Accompanying the globe was the Microsoft Internet Explorer wordmark, rendered in a two-level format. The word “Microsoft” was positioned to the right of the globe in a thin black font, while “Internet Explorer” was written in an extra bold sans-serif, dark blue font with a green shadow. This combination of elements created a visually striking and memorable logo that conveyed the brand’s identity and mission.
The first Internet Explorer logo established a recognizable and trustworthy brand, setting the stage for the browser’s visual identity. As we move forward in time, we will see how the Internet Explorer logo evolved to reflect changes in design trends and the browser’s growing prominence in the digital world.
Evolution of the Iconic ‘E’ (1996 – 2001)
In 1996, a significant shift occurred in the branding of Internet Explorer with the introduction of the lowercase ‘e’ logo. This new design marked a departure from the original globe imagery, focusing instead on a simpler and more modern representation of the browser. The blue ‘e’ was accompanied by a diagonal orbiting ring, symbolizing connectivity and the dynamic nature of the internet.
The design of the ‘e’ underwent further refinements in 1997 to enhance its clarity and aesthetic appeal. The color of the lowercase ‘e’ transitioned to a lighter blue, making it more visually appealing and easier to recognize. These changes reflected the browser’s commitment to improving user experience and staying relevant in the fast-evolving digital landscape.
During this period, the evolution of the iconic ‘e’ logo underscored the importance of simplicity and recognizability in brand design. Focusing on a clear and memorable symbol allowed Internet Explorer to establish a strong visual identity that resonated with users, setting the stage for future developments, including the introduction of the ie icon.
Three-Dimensional Era (2001 – 2006)
The turn of the millennium brought with it a new era for the Internet Explorer logo, characterized by a shift to a three-dimensional design. Introduced in 2001, this updated logo featured deeper blue gradients, adding a sense of depth and realism to the ‘e’ emblem. The vibrant gradient blue color made the logo more visually inviting and modern.
Shadows were added to the logo, further enhancing its three-dimensional appearance and making it stand out in the crowded digital space. The design intended to evoke a friendly and approachable image for Internet Explorer, aligning with the broader trend of making technology more accessible and user-friendly.
The three-dimensional era of the Internet Explorer logo reflects the browser’s efforts to stay relevant and appealing in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Embracing cutting-edge design trends allowed Internet Explorer to maintain its position as a leading web browser, resonating with users who valued both functionality and aesthetics.
Rebranding to Windows Internet Explorer (2006 – 2010)
In 2006, Internet Explorer underwent a significant rebranding, transitioning to Windows Internet Explorer. This change was more than just a name update; it marked a comprehensive redesign of the browser’s visual identity. The new logo featured a darker ‘E’ with a black outline, giving it a more robust and modern appearance.
One of the most notable changes in the redesigned logo was the orbit surrounding the ‘E’, which shifted to a yellow color. This vibrant yellow orbit added a new level of visual impact, making the logo more dynamic and eye-catching. The rebranding aimed to reinforce the browser’s connection to the Windows operating system, emphasizing its integration and enhanced functionality.
Rebranding to Windows Internet Explorer strategically aligned the browser with the broader Windows ecosystem, reflecting its evolution and commitment to innovation. This transformation period paved the way for further developments in the browser’s visual identity and functionality.
Simplification and Modernization (2010 – 2022)
The period from 2010 to 2022 saw a trend towards simplification and modernization in the design of the Internet Explorer logo. The 2010 redesign introduced a lighter color scheme for both the emblem and its orbiting ring, showcasing a more contemporary aesthetic. This shift aligned with the broader design trend of minimalism, which favored clean lines and simple forms.
In 2011, the official logo underwent further modifications, resulting in a flat light blue design that emphasized clarity and modernity. The typeface was also updated to appear fresher and crisper, enhancing the logo’s overall appeal and relevance in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
These changes demonstrate Internet Explorer’s efforts to stay current with design trends and user expectations. Focusing on a simplified and modern visual identity helped the browser maintain its relevance and appeal in an increasingly competitive market, especially when compared to previous versions.
Introduction of Microsoft Edge (2015)
The introduction of Microsoft Edge in 2015 marked the beginning of a new era for Microsoft’s web browsers. Officially launched during the Build Conference on April 29, 2015, Microsoft Edge replaced the earlier project codename ‘Spartan’. The new browser was designed to be faster, more secure, and more compatible with modern web standards.
The initial logo of Microsoft Edge drew inspiration from the Internet Explorer logo, maintaining a connection to its predecessor while introducing a fresh design focus. The recognizable blue ‘E’ was retained, but with a sleeker and more modern appearance that signaled a new chapter for Microsoft’s web browsing solutions.
The transition to Microsoft Edge marked a significant shift in Microsoft’s approach to web browsing, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and user-centric design. Building on the legacy of Internet Explorer while embracing new technologies, Microsoft Edge aimed to deliver a superior browsing experience for users.
Lessons from Internet Explorer’s Logo Design
The evolution of the Internet Explorer logo offers valuable lessons for modern graphic designers. One of the key principles illustrated by this journey is the importance of simplicity in logo design. Initially, the Internet Explorer logo featured complex imagery of Earth, but over time, it transitioned to a more streamlined and memorable symbol.
The introduction of the bold blue lowercase ‘e’ simplified the logo, making it instantly recognizable as a symbol of the internet. This shift to a simpler design helped establish a strong visual identity and brand recognition among users. As the logo evolved to incorporate three-dimensional elements and deeper blue gradients, it maintained its relevance by balancing simplicity with modernity.
Rebranding to Windows Internet Explorer reinforced the logo’s relevance, using a darker ‘E’ and yellow orbit to symbolize innovation and connectivity. Understanding these principles allows modern graphic designers to create logos that resonate with users and stand the test of time.
Parting words
In summary, the evolution of the Internet Explorer logo is a testament to the dynamic nature of technology and design. From its early days with Earth imagery to the sleek and modern designs of later years, each iteration reflects changes in user expectations and design trends. The lessons learned from this journey can inspire and guide modern graphic designers in creating impactful and memorable logos.
I’m a product and graphic designer with 10-years background. Writing about branding, logo creation and business.
Internet Explorer Logo PNG
Internet Explorer is a web-browser, created by Microsoft in 1995. At the beginning of the 2000s, it was the most popular browser, but later a lot of competitors appeared on the market. Internet Explorer is available in more than 90 languages but not supported by Android and Mac operating systems.
Meaning and history
The iconic Internet Explorer icon first appeared as a part of the browser’s logo, created in 1996. Today it is one of the most recognizable emblems across the globe, but before its creation, there were two visual identity versions, that not many people remember of.
1995
The very first Internet Explorer logo was designed in 1995 and depicted an image of the Earth with a “Microsoft Internet Explorer” wordmark.
The Earth was drawn in a calm blue white and gray color palette, while the “Internet Explorer” lettering featured dark blue with a green shadow. The word “Microsoft”, thin and black, was placed on the right of the globe.
1995 – 1996
The next version of the logo was designed later in the same year and was based on the Microsoft visual identity. The logo was composed of a wordmark, set in two levels, and an emblem on its right.
The upper level of the nameplate was “Microsoft” in its signature elegant typeface, while the lower level depicted “Internet Explorer” in extra-bold sans-serif. The emblem features a Microsoft iconic four-colored flag, enclosed in a circle.
1996 – 2001
1996 is the year when the iconic emblem appears on the Internet Explorer logo. It is placed on the right of the wordmark and features a bold bright blue letter “E” in the lowercase with the orbit, crossing it diagonally and representing “I” (for the “Internet”).
1996 – 2006
In 1996 the IE icon becomes an official logo. The color is changed to a lighter shade of blue, and the contour of the emblem is slightly refined.
2001 – 2006
In 2001 the emblem becomes more three-dimensional, gaining a deeper gradient blue color. It looks bright and vivid, evoking a friendly and welcoming feeling. The new icon stays with the browser for five years.
2003
For the last few years, the company has already tested a look with the addition of shadows to create volume. This time, they made the logo look almost three-dimensional and made the emblem glossy and with a purple tint. It reflected the style of the early 2000s.
2005
The redesign of 2004 has introduced a cool and bright three-dimensional Internet Explorer logo, which has only stayed active for a few months. It was a glossy purple lowercase “E”, which fully repeated the contours of the previous badge, but had its orbit closed and drawn in a solid line. As for the letter, it had an interesting “glass” surface, which also resembled a Candy. The bottom part of the letter was drawn with some light blue gradients, repeating the shade of two previous emblems.
2006 – 2010
The logo was once again redesigned in 2006, after the rebranding of Microsoft IE as Windows Internet Explorer. The letter “E” became darker and gained a black outline, while the orbit changed its color to yellow.
2010 – 2022
Another version of the logo, which is still in use nowadays was designed in 2012. It is a light blue flat icon, which looks like the one from 1997, but in a refined shape and a brighter shade of blue. No yellow color here.
2011 – 2022
In 2011the color combination was the same, but both colors became lighter and the orbit was modified. The “E” also changes its typeface, and now looks fresher and more crispy. The logo from 2011 is still in use today on Windows 7/10 and 8x.
Icon
The icon of Internet Explorer hasn’t changed much throughout the years, as well as the main logo of the browser. By today the lines and contours of the famous light blue lowercase “E” have become more distinct and clean, and the main color — brighter. As for the Swoosh, crossing the letter diagonally, it has become thinner and its vivid yellow color started looking more eye-catching, evoking a sense of energy and movement.
The white background of the icon softens and smoothens the whole composition, making the image evoke a sense of responsibility and professionalism.