How to Downgrade Firefox

As I mentioned last week in my article How to Downgrade Google Chrome, there are just times when doing so is necessary. Yes, the creators will tell you to never downgrade your browser. It can pose a security risk, since each new iteration of a browser has upgrade security fixes. However, what else are you supposed to do if the newest version – that the browser updated to automatically – just doesn’t work for you?

As long as you have good security software on your computer, you will be fine if you downgrade your browser by one version to the last stable release..

Just a few short years ago, Firefox was the most popular browser. It is still an excellent, safe and fast choice. I fully believe Chrome has taken the lead due to the seamless integration with Gmail, Docs and so forth. It just makes sense for most people. But if, like me, you still love Firefox, you likely have it installed on your machines, as well.

Firefox updates itself pretty frequently without your ever even knowing about it. Each release will have minor – or sometimes major – bug fixes and security enhancements. If you do not want Firefox to update itself, you will have to change the update settings. Click the “Menu” button (three lines in upper right hand corner of the screen) and then choose “Options.” The first tab that will open is the “General Panel.” Scroll about halfway down the page to “Firefox Updates.” Right now, you will see that “Automatically Install Updates” is selected. Instead, click the circle next to “Check for updates, but let you choose when to install them.” Also, uncheck the box next to “Use a background service to install updates.” Firefox will now no longer auto update itself. Keep in mind, though, that you have to remember to check to see if there are updates available and install them when needed.

How to Downgrade Firefox

If you are not happy with the current version of Firefox, it is easy to downgrade to the previous stable release – or any others. First, you need to know which exact version you are running. To find out, click those three lines again and this time choose ”Help” near the bottom. From there, click on ”About Firefox.” Doing this will bring up a box letting you know which iteration you are currently using. In my case, I have version 68.0.1 installed at the moment.

Once you have this information, you will need to head to the Mozilla Support page for release versions. The most recent version prior to yours will be listed. Click the one you wish to use and a box will open asking you to save the executable file. Clicking on the downloaded file will begin the install process. Click ”Next,” and choose ”Standard Install.” The progress box will let you know where all of the files will be saved to. Click on the ”Continue” button and the installation will finish quickly.

That is all there is to it! What other Mozilla or Firefox questions do you need help answering? Leave me a comment or shoot me an email and I will be happy to try and help by researching and writing an article whenever possible.

Happy surfing!