On March 19, 2009, Microsoft announced the release and public availability of Windows Internet Explorer 8 for public download on the Internet Explorer Web site. The Internet Explorer 8 download will initially be available to customers from the Microsoft Download Center and the Windows Update site. They can also order it on CD via the Internet Explorer Web site. Internet Explorer 8 will be released in 63 languages in three waves, which will occur over a period of several months.

Internet Explorer 8 is the latest version of the Microsoft Web browser. Internet Explorer 8 helps provide a faster, easier, and more secure end-user experience.

• Faster. Internet Explorer 8 is more responsive, with new pages and tabs opening up fast and reliably. End users can now get to the information they want in fewer steps. Internet Explorer 8 provides one-click access to Web-based e-mail, favorite news sites, or other online services.
• Easier. Reduce the steps to accomplish many common tasks, and automate an end user’s access to real-time information updates. End users can keep track of favorite sports teams, news, weather, and more with a single click.
• More Private. Helps protect end users’ privacy and confidential information.
• More Secure. Helps prevent malicious software from reaching end users’ PCs, and makes it easier to detect unsafe Web sites.

* Note that Chinese Traditional Hong Kong (B3) is not available for Windows XP products; however, Chinese Traditional (ZH) can be used in its place.

The supported scenario for creating customized images of Windows XP and Internet Explorer 8 is as follows:

1. Boot the Windows XP image.
2. Install custom Internet Explorer 8 (use the Internet Explorer Administration Kit to create a branded version of Internet Explorer 8).
3. Capture the new image.

• Microsoft Consumer Customer Support Policy
  • Microsoft will provide unlimited installation and usage support at no charge to all customers who obtain Internet Explorer 8 via the Microsoft Download Center, Windows Update, Automatic Updates, or mail order CD. Customer support will begin with the Release-to-Web (RTW) version of Internet Explorer 8, and will be available through December 31, 2009.
• Customer Support Information
  • Customers should call Microsoft to obtain support that will help them browse with Internet Explorer 8 quickly and easily. Phone support is available via the following sources:
    • North America: Toll-free: 1-866-876-4926.
    • Other specific countries: For international phone numbers, refer to the regional dropdown list on the Microsoft Help and Support Web site.
  • Support hours of operation:
    • Monday—Friday: 5:00—21:00 Pacific Time
    • Saturday and Sunday: 6:00—15:00 Pacific Time
  • For general assistance, customers should visit the Microsoft Help and Support Home Page.