Microsoft will release Internet Explorer 7 (IE7) via Windows Automatic Update as part of their November patch/update cycle.

IE7 is a significant change from previous versions including a markedly different look to the browser itself.  Along with appearance changes, Microsoft has altered some underlying code which may render web-based applications and certain websites inaccessible.

Information Technology Services and campus Technology Coordinators agreed to block the automatic installation of IE7 for computers on the university domain until we are certain that our web-based applications like MyUAlbany and WebCT will function properly; other automatic updates will install as usual. To minimize disruption to our customers, the block will remain in place though out the Spring 2007 semester.

There is no block tool available for computers which do not log onto the domain and we recommend that clients do not install this software until the university has completed its testing.

Plans for a structured deployment of IE7 are in development and once this block is released, we will offer the same support for IE7 that we have provided for previous releases.

If you have further questions, please contact your Technology Coordinator for assistance.