Can you tell me if my older Web application pages will work with Internet Explorer Version 7, coming soon from Microsoft?
Microsoft has tentatively scheduled Internet Explorer 7 for release to the automatic update systems at the beginning of November. You can download the release candidate today (www.Microsoft.com/ie).
Test your important Web pages and applications if you haven’t started that process already. There are some noticeable differences in how Cascading Style Sheets, background images in tables and some dynamic content are handled.
You will be asked to customize security settings when you first start Version 7. The new version supports tabbed browsing, and seems to load pages much quicker. I was pleasantly surprised at how fast one of our older Java applet pages loaded, and it works just the way it should in Version 7.
The browser will be offered as a high-priority update when it is deployed to Windows Update but will not automatically install itself. A local admin will have to accept the option to install the new version.
Sites using Software Update Services, Windows Server Update Services or System Management Server will have complete control over Version 7 deployment – you can also use the Version 7 Blocker Kit to remove it from the high-priority update list. It will still be listed as an optional update and can still be manually installed.
Blass is an IT manager in Phoenix, and can be reached at dr.internet@jschnee.com.
