So how does this even work?

[Crimson]

I tried installing ABP for IE multiple times over past months. Every time, it failed to even "activate."

The AdblockPlusEngine.exe does not automatically start when starting IE.
There is no ABP icon in status bar.
ABP add-on is listed, loaded and enabled in IE's add-on manager.

I tried the IE 32 and 64bit both (one in program files; another in program files (x86)).

I'm really confused.

[Crimson]

Just to add, I'm on Windows 8.1; IE11; all updates installed.

I tried it before on Windows 8 too. Didn't show up in status bar.

[betoarg]

I have the same problem for IE 10. Hopefully someone will post a reply on how to open it up.