Many older CCTV DVRs (Digital Video Recorders) and NVRs (Network Video Recorders) were designed years ago when Internet Explorer (IE) was the most commonly used browser. These devices often have web interfaces that only function properly with Internet Explorer because they rely on outdated plugins such as ActiveX controls.
However, Microsoft officially discontinued Internet Explorer in 2022, and modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and even the default Edge browser no longer support these old technologies. As a result, many users find themselves unable to access their CCTV systems through the browser.
Thankfully, Microsoft has included a solution inside its Edge browser called Internet Explorer Mode (IE Mode). This feature allows you to reload certain websites as if they were running in Internet Explorer, ensuring compatibility with older CCTV devices. If you are facing this issue, learning “How to Enable Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge for CCTV” is the easiest way to continue accessing your DVR or NVR web interface without relying on the outdated IE browser.
Why Do You Need Internet Explorer Mode for CCTV?
Most DVRs and NVRs from older manufacturers have web interfaces that were coded specifically for Internet Explorer. They depend on IE’s legacy plugins to stream video, display menus, and allow configuration. Since modern browsers removed support for these plugins, the login pages either don’t load correctly or video streams fail to appear.
Instead of replacing your entire CCTV system, you can simply enable IE Mode in Edge. This is especially useful for businesses and homeowners who still rely on older CCTV systems but want to use updated operating systems and browsers.
How to Enable Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge
Before enabling IE Mode, ensure that your CCTV device is:
- Connected to the same local network as your computer.
- Powered on and functioning correctly.
- Accessible via its IP address or URL.
Once you confirm this, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge and Access Your CCTV Link
- Launch the Microsoft Edge browser.
- Type your CCTV’s IP address or URL in the address bar and press Enter.
- Once the page loads (even if partially), copy the URL.
Step 2: Save the CCTV URL for Quick Access
- Add the CCTV link to your Favourites/Bookmarks.
- This will help you quickly access it later once IE Mode is enabled.
Step 3: Open Microsoft Edge Settings
- Click on the three-dot menu (⋯) in the top-right corner of the browser.
- From the dropdown list, select Settings.
Step 4: Navigate to the Default Browser Section
- In the Settings panel, look at the left-side menu.
- Click on Default Browser.
- On the right side, find the option Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode.
Step 5: Add Your CCTV Link to IE Mode
- Click the Add button under “Internet Explorer mode pages.”
- Paste the CCTV URL or IP address you copied earlier.
- Click Add to save it.
Step 6: Reload Your CCTV Page
- Reopen the saved link from your Favourites or type the IP address again.
- This time, the page will load in IE Compatibility Mode.
- You should now see your CCTV login page and be able to access the live video feed or settings.
Additional Tips for Smooth Access
- Enable ActiveX Controls – Some CCTV devices still require ActiveX plugins. If prompted, allow the plugin to install or enable permissions when requested.
- Check Network Connection – If the page doesn’t load at all, verify that your PC and CCTV system are on the same local network.
- Use Admin Credentials – Many DVRs/NVRs have login restrictions; make sure you’re using the correct username and password.
- Update Edge Regularly – Microsoft continuously updates Edge, so keeping it up-to-date ensures better security and compatibility.
Final Thoughts
Even though Internet Explorer has been retired, you don’t need to replace your CCTV DVR or NVR just because the web interface doesn’t load in modern browsers. By enabling Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge, you can continue to access your CCTV system, view live footage, and adjust settings without issues.
This solution is simple, reliable, and officially supported by Microsoft, making it the best way to extend the life of older CCTV devices. Instead of struggling with unsupported browsers, just configure IE Mode once, and your CCTV link will always open correctly in Microsoft Edge.
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