Using the Firefox web browser

How to make Firefox as safe as possible

Firefox is growing in popularity as an alternative web browser. Like other web browsers, it needs to be used safely.

What is Firefox

Firefox is a free, open-source web browser that can be used instead of (or in addition to) Internet Explorer.

Get Firefox

Download Firefox. We recommend using the latest version (at the time of writing, 2.0.0.1).

Firefox security features

• Phishing protection against sites that try to steal your identity.
• Automated updates to keep the browser safe. (If you are running a version older than 1.0.4, you should upgrade manually to a later version).
• Protection from spyware. Firefox will warn you whenever a website tries to download, run or install software.
• Automatically blocks pop-up adverts.

Changing security options

To change security settings in Firefox, select Tools then Options on the menu bar. The default settings are appropriate for most purposes but for additional security, you can disable Java and JavaScript in the Content tab. You can also edit your privacy policy, including how you treat cookies, on the Privacy tab.

On laptops, you may want to disable the option "Remember passwords for sites" on the Security tab in case this makes it easier for a thief to access your private websites if they steal your computer. Alternatively, set a master password for all your passwords.

More information

• Check the Mozilla Security page for more information.

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