# IE vs FB: Maximizing Ad Performance on Internet Explorer and Facebook

Let’s talk about something most marketers secretly argue about but rarely say out loud: does anyone still care about Internet Explorer when running ads, or is Facebook the undisputed king? The truth? Both platforms have their quirks, and if you’re not optimizing for each, you’re leaving money on the table.

I’ve spent years running campaigns across both—some that flopped hard (lesson learned) and others that crushed it. The difference? Knowing how to play to each platform’s strengths. Whether you’re a small business owner or a seasoned marketer, understanding how IE and FB handle ads can make or break your ROI.

So, let’s break it down—no fluff, just straight-up insights on how to get the most out of both.

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## Why Internet Explorer Still Matters (Yes, Really)

Before you roll your eyes, hear me out. Internet Explorer (IE) might feel like a relic, but in certain corners of the web, it’s still kicking. Government agencies, older corporate systems, and even some international markets still rely on it. If your audience includes these users, ignoring IE means ignoring potential conversions.

### Key Challenges with IE Ads
– **Compatibility Issues**: IE doesn’t always play nice with modern ad formats. Flash-based ads? Dead. Complex HTML5? Might glitch.
– **Slower Load Times**: IE’s notorious lag can murder your ad’s performance if files aren’t optimized.
– **Security Restrictions**: Older versions block scripts and tracking pixels, skewing your data.

### How to Fix It
1. **Simplify Ad Design**: Stick to lightweight, static images or basic HTML5. Fancy animations? Save them for Chrome.
2. **Test Extensively**: Run cross-browser checks to ensure your ads render properly. Tools like BrowserStack help.
3. **Adjust Bidding Strategies**: If IE users convert slower, allocate budget accordingly—don’t overspend where returns lag.

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## Facebook Ads: The Heavyweight Champion

No surprises here—FB dominates ad spend for a reason. Hyper-targeting, insane user engagement, and a self-service platform that’s (mostly) idiot-proof. But even here, mistakes happen.

### Common FB Ad Pitfalls
– **Over-targeting**: Narrowing your audience to 500 people? Congrats, you’ve exhausted your reach in a day.
– **Ad Fatigue**: Showing the same creative to the same users 20 times? They’ll tune you out fast.
– **Ignoring Placements**: Automatic placements can dump your budget into Instagram Reels when your audience lives in Feed.

### Pro Tips for FB Domination
1. **Layer Your Targeting**: Combine interests with lookalike audiences for balance.
2. **Refresh Creatives**: Swap images/videos every 2 weeks to combat fatigue.
3. **Manual Placements**: Choose where your ads run based on performance data—don’t let FB guess.

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## The Cross-Platform Playbook

Here’s where it gets fun. Running ads on both IE and FB isn’t about splitting focus—it’s about synergy.

### Retargeting Across Platforms
– Use FB’s pixel to track IE users who visited your site but didn’t convert, then hit them with a tailored FB ad.
– IE users often research before buying. A well-timed FB retargeting ad can nudge them over the line.

### Budget Allocation
– **FB for Broad Reach**: Ideal for brand awareness and quick conversions.
– **IE for Niche Audiences**: Allocate 10-15% of budget here if data shows IE users convert (common in B2B or older demographics).

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## Final Word

IE isn’t dead. FB isn’t perfect. The smartest marketers don’t pick sides—they optimize for both. Test, track, and tweak. Your ad performance will thank you.

Now, go make those platforms work for you. And if anyone tells you IE doesn’t matter, show them the data.