Konqueror as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Internet Explorer

Updated October 18, 2026

Our verdict

Konqueror is not a practical replacement for Microsoft Internet Explorer for most former IE users, especially those needing modern web compatibility. It uses the aging KHTML engine, which lacks full HTML5, CSS3, and modern JavaScript support. While it can handle basic web browsing and legacy local intranet pages in controlled environments, it fails on sites requiring current standards. It suits niche KDE users who value its file-browser integration and lightweight design, but not general users wanting reliable, secure, up-to-date web access.

Feature parity35%

License: GPL-2.0-or-later
Price: Free
Latest version: 26.08.2
Rating: —

Install Konqueror Website ↗

What works the same

Both offer tabbed browsing for managing multiple pages or locations
Support for bookmarks and basic session management
Integrated support for FTP and older web protocols
Built-in handling of common document types like PDF and images
Customizable interface with side panels and toolbars

What is different

Konqueror uses KHTML, which lacks full HTML5, CSS3, and modern JavaScript support needed by current websites
No support for modern browser extensions or add-ons ecosystem
No password or bookmark import directly from Internet Explorer profiles
No cross-platform sync or cloud account integration
Doubles as a file manager, which IE never did

Opening your Microsoft Internet Explorer files

Konqueror can open local HTML files and imported bookmarks if exported as standard HTML from Internet Explorer, but direct import of IE-specific files like favicons or password databases is not supported. There is no built-in tool to migrate from IE's format, so manual conversion or third-party scripts may be needed. Konqueror handles basic web content well, but complex legacy intranet files relying on ActiveX or IE-specific behaviors will not render correctly.

Switching from Microsoft Internet Explorer to Konqueror, step by step

Export Internet Explorer bookmarks as HTML
Import the HTML file into Konqueror's bookmark manager manually
Install Konqueror via your distribution's package manager (e.g., apt, dnf, pacman)
Configure proxy and security settings under Settings > Configure Konqueror
Use tabbed browsing and sidebar for file and web navigation
Test legacy sites; expect limited compatibility with modern or IE-dependent pages

Key features of Konqueror

Integrated web browser and file manager
Supports local, network, and cloud filesystems (FTP, SFTP, WebDAV)
Tabbed browsing for both files and web pages
KHTML rendering engine (ancestor of WebKit)
Customizable interface with panels and sidebars
Built-in document viewers for PDF, images, and text
URL bar doubles as command line for file operations
Session management and bookmarks with folder support

How to install Konqueror on Linux

Ubuntu / Mintsudo apt install konqueror

Debiansudo apt install konqueror

Fedorasudo dnf install konqueror

Arch / Manjarosudo pacman -S konqueror

openSUSEsudo zypper install konqueror

Frequently asked questions

Can Konqueror run modern websites like YouTube or Google Workspace?

No, Konqueror's KHTML engine does not support current HTML5, CSS3, or JavaScript standards well. Sites like YouTube or Google Workspace will not function properly or load at all.

Is Konqueror still maintained?

Yes, Konqueror is actively maintained as part of the KDE Project, but development focuses on stability and file management, not modern web compatibility.

Can I use browser extensions in Konqueror like in Internet Explorer?

No, Konqueror does not support browser extensions or add-ons. It lacks the plugin architecture needed for productivity tools or ad blockers.