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What are some ways to resolve compatibility issues with Internet Explorer on my Webflow website?

TL;DR
  • Identify IE issues using tools like BrowserStack and adjust Webflow designs to avoid unsupported CSS/JS features such as Grid, CSS variables, and ES6 syntax.
  • Add fallbacks, polyfills, or browser upgrade notices, and consider dropping IE support entirely if your user base allows.

Internet Explorer (IE) compatibility issues can occur because Webflow-generated sites use modern HTML, CSS, and JavaScript features not supported by IE. Here’s how you can address or work around those issues.

1. Understand IE’s Limitations

  • IE11 is the last supported version, and even that lacks full support for CSS Flexbox, Grid, CSS variables, and modern JavaScript (ES6+).
  • Microsoft recommends using Edge; IE is considered deprecated as of June 15, 2022.

2. Identify What’s Broken in IE

  • Use BrowserStack or similar tools to preview your Webflow site in IE.
  • Manually test on an IE11 installation (if available).
  • Make a list of broken layouts or non-functional scripts.

3. Adjust CSS Features in Webflow Designer

  • Avoid CSS Grid—IE doesn’t fully support modern Grid. Use Flexbox with caution (ensure no auto margins or wrapping tricks).
  • Avoid custom properties (CSS variables)—Webflow may inject them in custom code or embed code.
  • Use fallback properties for any CSS that may not be recognized.
  • Stick to widely supported CSS units and properties (avoid clamp(), min(), max()).

4. Use Feature Detection or Fallbacks in Custom Code

  • If you’re using custom JavaScript, use feature detection (e.g., typeof Promise !== 'undefined') to check if IE supports it.
  • Avoid ES6 syntax (like arrow functions or let/const) unless transpiled.

5. Add a Browser Upgrade Notice

  • Consider adding a banner or modal popup using Webflow interactions or custom JavaScript to inform users they’re using an outdated browser.
  • Example content: “This site uses modern web technologies. Please upgrade your browser for the best experience.”

6. Use Polyfills (Optional but Limited)

  • You can include polyfills (from services like Polyfill.io) to patch certain missing JavaScript features.

  • Include a script tag in Project Settings > Custom Code > Head Code:

  • Example (inline use only):
    https://polyfill.io/v3/polyfill.min.js?features=default

  • Note: Polyfills have limited impact on CSS compatibility.

7. Avoid Webflow Features That Rely on Modern APIs

  • Animations built with Interactions 2.0 may not run reliably.
  • Lottie animations may not work in IE or render incorrectly.
  • Sliders, tabs, and dropdowns are generally safe, but test them.

8. Consider Dropping IE Support

  • Usage of IE globally is below 1%. If your audience doesn't rely on it, you may choose to:
  • Include messaging rejecting support for IE, or
  • Redirect IE users to a static fallback or message page using custom code.

Summary

To resolve IE compatibility issues in Webflow, stick to basic layout structures, avoid modern CSS/JS features, test thoroughly, and optionally inform users to upgrade. Full compatibility isn't guaranteed due to IE's legacy nature, and long-term support is not advisable.

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