Phillip Corcoran :
IE cannot be removed completely as it's an integral part of Windows. Many IE resources are used for Windows functions even when IE itself is not running.
I do not think it would be appropriate for this forum to give tips on partially removing it. We exist to help with problems, not to create them.
You are correct. However, the simple fix...... Control panel. services local, Internet explorer, right click, select "disable service"...... Then open the registry, by clicking on "windows" (bottom left for the dummies), in the command bar type regedit. click on "yes" if you encounter window asking if you want to make changes etc. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER, Software, Microsoft, Internet Explorer. In the right hand pane, there will be 4 values. Right click on the bottom value, it will be either be labelled "New Value #1", or possibly "Current Value #1" (it has a blue icon next to it). Select "Modify". A small window will open. Change the value to #0 in the "Value data:" field, click ok, or apply. RESTART your computer (not shutdown, then start! RESTART). A small window will appear, saying "resetting something or other". Computer will startup, IE icons will be gone...... Just so you are aware, IE is still on your computer, however, it is not sucking RAM any longer, and it is no longer in the toolbar (where us firefox, or chrome users might accidentally click on it). I hack, I slash, I rub some f'n spit and dirt on it, apply a bandaid, and smile like it doesn't hurt a bit..........