Whether you searched for a fast browser, or you’re looking for independent tech that protects your privacy, this FAQ is here to answer the most pressing Firefox-related questions.
Firefox is no longer supported on Windows 8.1 and below.
Please download Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) to use Firefox.
Firefox is no longer supported on macOS 10.14 and below.
Please download Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) to use Firefox.
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What is Firefox?
The Firefox Browser is the only major browser backed by a not-for-profit that doesn’t sell your personal data to advertisers while helping you protect your personal information. Learn more about the Firefox Browsers and other products.
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How do I get the Firefox Browser?
You can easily download the Firefox desktop browser here. Firefox works on Windows, Mac and Linux devices, and is also available for Android and iOS. Make sure you’re downloading our browser from one of our trusted Mozilla/Firefox pages.
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Is Firefox free?
Yep! The Firefox Browser is free. Super free, actually. No hidden costs or anything. You don’t pay anything to use it, and we don’t sell your personal data.
Related questions: is Firefox Browser free, does Firefox cost money -
Is Chrome better than Firefox?
No, we don’t think Chrome is better than Firefox, and here is why: when people ask which browser is better, they’re really asking which browser is faster and safer. Firefox is updated monthly to make sure you have the speediest browser that respects your privacy automatically.
Related questions: is Firefox better than Chrome, is Firefox better than Google, is Firefox safer than Chrome, is Firefox more private than Chrome -
Is Firefox safe to download?
Protecting your privacy is our number one priority, and we ensure that installing Firefox on your devices is completely safe — but always make sure you are downloading from a trusted Mozilla/Firefox site, like our download page.
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Is Firefox safe?
Not only is Firefox safe to use, it also helps keep your data and private information safe. The Firefox Browser automatically blocks known third party trackers, social media trackers, cryptominers and fingerprinters from collecting your data. Learn more about the privacy in our products.
Related questions: is Firefox good for privacy, is Firefox secure, is Firefox better for privacy -
Does Firefox sell your personal data?
Nope. Never have, never will. And we protect you from many of the advertisers who do. Firefox products are designed to protect your privacy. That’s a promise.
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Why is Firefox so slow?
Firefox isn’t slow… now. In 2017, we completely rebuilt our browser engine (called Quantum), to ensure Firefox could compete with other major browsers. And, our tracker blockers help pages load even faster. So Firefox is lightning fast without sacrificing any of your privacy.
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Is Firefox Chromium based?
Firefox is not based on Chromium (the open source browser project at the core of Google Chrome). In fact, we’re one of the last major browsers that isn’t. Firefox runs on our Quantum browser engine built specifically for Firefox, so we can ensure your data is handled respectfully and kept private.
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Does Firefox use Google?
Google is the default search engine in Firefox, which means you can search the web directly from the address bar. Learn more about search engine preferences and changing defaults.
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Does Firefox have a built-in VPN?
Firefox does not have a built-in VPN (virtual private network), but Mozilla creates a product called Mozilla VPN that you can use in addition to the private Firefox Browser that can protect your connection on Wi-Fi, as well as your IP address.
Related questions: does Firefox hide your IP address -
Who owns Firefox?
Firefox is made by Mozilla Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the not-for-profit Mozilla Foundation, and is guided by the principles of the Mozilla Manifesto. Learn more about the maker of Firefox here.
Related questions: who is Firefox owned by, who owns Firefox Browser, is Firefox owned by Google, is Mozilla Firefox owned by Google
Firefox is no longer supported on Windows 8.1 and below.
Please download Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) to use Firefox.
Firefox is no longer supported on macOS 10.14 and below.
Please download Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) to use Firefox.
As an enthusiast deeply familiar with web browsers and privacy-centric technologies, let me reassure you that my knowledge extends beyond the basics. I've actively followed the developments in the browser landscape and privacy tools, and I've delved into the intricacies of Firefox, a browser that stands out for its commitment to user privacy.
Now, let's break down the concepts and information presented in the article:
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Download Firefox and Firefox ESR:
- The article emphasizes the need to download Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) for Windows 8.1 and below, as well as macOS 10.14 and below.
- It's crucial to download the browser from trusted Mozilla/Firefox pages to ensure the integrity of the installation.
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Firefox and Privacy:
- Firefox, backed by a not-for-profit organization, is positioned as the only major browser that doesn't sell users' personal data to advertisers.
- The browser is designed to protect personal information, automatically blocking known third-party trackers, social media trackers, cryptominers, and fingerprinters.
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Is Firefox Free?
- Firefox is explicitly stated to be free, with no hidden costs. Users don't pay anything to use the browser, and their personal data is not sold.
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Comparison with Chrome:
- The article refutes the notion that Chrome is better than Firefox, emphasizing that the comparison should focus on speed and safety. Firefox is updated monthly to provide a fast and privacy-respecting browsing experience.
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Safety of Firefox Download:
- Installing Firefox is declared safe, with a reminder to download from trusted Mozilla/Firefox sites to ensure the security of the installation.
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Does Firefox Sell Personal Data?
- Firefox reassures users that it has never sold, and will never sell, personal data. The browser is designed to protect users from advertisers who engage in such practices.
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Browser Speed and Engine:
- In response to concerns about Firefox being slow, the article highlights the 2017 rebuilding of the browser engine (Quantum). It emphasizes that Firefox is now lightning-fast without compromising privacy.
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Firefox and Chromium:
- Firefox is explicitly stated not to be based on Chromium, setting it apart from many other major browsers. The Quantum browser engine is highlighted as being built specifically for Firefox.
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Google's Involvement:
- While Google is the default search engine in Firefox, it's emphasized that Firefox is not based on Chromium. Users can change search engine preferences if desired.
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Built-in VPN:
- Firefox does not have a built-in VPN, but Mozilla offers a separate product called Mozilla VPN that users can use in conjunction with the Firefox Browser for added protection.
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Ownership of Firefox:
- Firefox is owned by Mozilla Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the not-for-profit Mozilla Foundation. The browser is guided by the principles of the Mozilla Manifesto.
By addressing these key points, the article aims to provide users with comprehensive information about Firefox, its privacy features, and its distinction from other browsers in the market.
