Firefox is a popular web browser that is free to download, fast and customizable. Follow this guide to install Firefox on a PC, Mac, or Android device, as well as how to install certain add-ons.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Firefox For Windows
Step 1. Visit the Mozilla site
The download link in the green box will automatically detect your operating system and language.
If you want to download Firefox in a different language or for a different operating system, click the Systems & Language link just below the Download button
Step 2. Click the Download button
The download will start immediately. Once the file has finished downloading, double-click on it to start the installation. Windows will ask for confirmation before running this file.
Step 3. Choose the type of installation
Standard is an automatic installation and is suitable for most users. Everything you need to start using Firefox will be installed right away. If you choose a custom installation, you will be presented with the following options:
- Choose the installation location. Firefox will automatically select the best place to install it. You can change it if you want.
- Install a maintenance service. This feature will automatically update Firefox in the background. Disable this if you want to install updates manually.
- Choose where you will place the icon. You will be given the option to select the Desktop, Start Menu, and Quick Launch bar.
- Choose whether you want Firefox to be the default browser. This means that every link you click will open in Firefox.
Step 4. Run Firefox
After a few moments, Firefox will be installed and you can start browsing the web. You can choose to start the program right away, or start your own later.
Step 5. Import the settings
If you have used another browser before Firefox, you will be given the option to import Options, Bookmarks, History, and Passwords from the old browser. This may take a while.
Method 2 of 4: Firefox For Mac
Step 1. Download Firefox
You can get it for free on the Mozilla website. The download link will automatically detect the operating system and language. If you want to download another language or system, click the Systems & Languages link under the Download button.
Step 2. Open the DMG file
Once the download is complete, the DMG file will open automatically. Otherwise, click the downloaded file on the desktop.
Step 3. Install the app
Drag the Firefox.app file to the Applications folder. Hold down control and click the Firefox window. Select Eject "Firefox".
Step 4. Use Firefox in the dock
If you want to add Firefox to the dock for quick access, click and drag the icon from the Applications folder to the dock.
Step 5. Start Firefox
You will be warned that the program has been downloaded successfully. Confirm that you want to open it. Firefox will ask if you want to set it as the default browser. After making your selection, the browser will start.
Method 3 of 4: Installing Add-ons
Step 1. Understand what an add-on is
Add-ons are applications that you can add to Firefox to provide additional functionality. You can browse the full library of free add-ons directly from the Firefox program.
Step 2. Open the Add-ons Manager
Click the Firefox menu at the top left of the window. Click Add-ons, the icon with the puzzle piece next to it. This will open the Add-ons Manager.
Step 3. Find the add-on to be installed
The Add-ons Manager will show you some of the featured add-ons. You can search for a specific extension at the top right of the window. To browse the entire catalog of add-ons, click the link at the bottom right.
Step 4. Install the add-on
Once you find the add-on you want, click the green “Add to Firefox” button. Firefox will ask you to confirm, then the add-on will be installed. You usually have to restart Firefox to run the newly installed extension.
Method 4 of 4: Firefox for Android
Step 1. Download Firefox
You can get the Firefox app from the Google Play Store or from the Mozilla site.
Step 2. Install the app
Press the Install button to install the Firefox application. The installer will ask you to accept permission for Firefox to access your GPS location, or write files to the SD card. Review and accept permission to continue.
Step 3. Open the app
Once the installation is complete you can open the application. Check the “Allow automatic updating” box. This will ensure that your Firefox app has the latest security fixes.
