With the launch of Windows 10 the US tech giant killed off the old browser in favour of a new web surfing tool called Microsoft Edge.

Now Microsoft has confirmed that it won't support the ageing software anymore and wants everyone to upgrade within weeks.

This means after January 12th there will be no more security updates or patches to help users protect themselves against malicious attacks and browser vulnerabilities.

A message posted on Microsoft's support page states: "Beginning January 12, 2016, only the most current version of Internet Explorer available for a supported operating system will receive technical supports and security updates.

"Internet Explorer 11 is the last version of Internet Explorer, and will continue to receive security updates, compatibility fixes, and technical support on Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10."

Figures suggest that millions of people across the globe are still using older versions of IE and the software remains one of the most likely targets of hackers and attackers.

Although Microsoft's Edge browser is the default web tool on Windows 10 many users have turned their back on it.

The redesigned web tool brings a host of new features to surfing the internet including faster and easier browsing.

However, new data has revealed that Windows 10 users are sticking firmly with other browsers such as the older Internet Explorer and Google's Chrome browser which is is still the most popular choice for web fans.

According to San Francisco-based firm Quantcast Google Chrome accounts for a staggering 70% of all browser activity originating from Windows 10.

The lacklustre uptake could be due to the browser's unfinished functionality.

For example, Edge does not currently support add-ons – something Microsoft has promised to fix as soon as possible.

Sadly, for fans of Internet Explorer it looks like its time is finally up.

Without any secruity updates the software could be an ideal target for cyber crooks and the advice seems clear – upgrade to Edge as soon as possible.

(The Daily Star)