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A beginner's guide to getting the Firefox browser on desktop or mobile
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Firefox is a popular web browser that can be downloaded for free on computers, tablets, and smartphones. You can find the latest version on the official website. Here's how to download and install Mozilla Firefox on your Windows or Mac computer, iPhone, iPad, or Android.

Quick Steps

  1. Go to https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/ in a web browser.
  2. Click Download Firefox.
  3. Launch the installer file.
  4. On Mac, drag Firefox into the Applications folder.
Section 1 of 5:

Using Windows

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  1. Go to https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/ in a web browser. You can use Microsoft Edge or another browser.[1]
  2. This is the blue button.
    • The installer will download to your computer.
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  3. In most cases, this will be in your Downloads folder.
    • If needed, click Open. You may also need to click Yes if a security alert pops up.
    • When the installation is complete, Firefox will open.
  4. If you want to use Firefox as your default browser, do the following:
    • Click the Start menu.
    • Click Settings.
    • Click Apps.
    • Click Default apps.
    • Click + or your current default browser.
    • Select Mozilla Firefox.
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Section 2 of 5:

Using Mac

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  1. Go to https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/mac/ in your browser. You can use Safari or another browser.
  2. This is the blue button.
    • The installer will download to your computer.
    • You may need to click Allow to let your browser download the file.
  3. On Safari, click the download arrow in the top-right corner. Click the magnifying glass icon next to the Firefox installer to quickly open the file's location in the Finder.
    • When you open the installer, it will begin downloading Firefox.
  4. A window will open for you to do so.
    • You can now use Firefox.
  5. If you want to use Firefox as your default browser, do the following:
    • Click the Apple menu.
    • Click System Settings/Preferences.
    • Click Desktop & Dock.
    • Scroll down on the right panel and locate the Default web browser menu.
    • Select Mozilla Firefox.
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Section 3 of 5:

Using iPhone or iPad

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  1. Open the App Store. This looks like a white A with a blue background. You can usually find this on your home screen or in the App Library.
  2. This will be in the bottom-right corner.
  3. Results will load as you type.
  4. This will be next to Firefox: Private, Safe Browser.
    • You can also tap it to view the app's details, such as previews, ratings, and more.
  5. You may need to provide your Face ID, Touch ID, or Apple ID password to approve the download. Once approved, the app will begin to install.
    • When it's finished, you can find the app on your Home screen or App Library.
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Section 4 of 5:

Using Android

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  1. You can find this at the top of the screen.
  2. Results will load below.
  3. You'll be redirected to Firefox's app page.
  4. This is at the top-right of the page. Firefox will begin downloading.
    • If prompted, tap ACCEPT to initiate the download.
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Section 5 of 5:

Troubleshooting

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  1. 1
    Check your security settings. If you're not using an administrator account or have certain protections enabled, you'll need to approve the download first.
    • If you aren't the admin, you'll need to ask them for approval and/or the password.
  2. 2
    Free up some space. Check your hard disk and make sure there's enough room for Firefox to download. Uninstall any unnecessary programs.
  3. 3
    Update your system. Whether you're using Mac, Windows, iOS, or Android, make sure your system is running the latest possible update. These include common bug fixes.
  4. 4
    Temporarily disable your antivirus. Some antivirus programs will block all third-party software downloads. Despite being a trusted source, this may include Firefox. Turn off your antivirus until you've successfully downloaded Firefox, and then turn it on again.
  5. 5
    Check your Internet connection. Make sure you're connected to a reliable network while downloading. An unstable Wi-Fi network can prevent you from properly installing the file.
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Community Q&A

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Add New Question
  • Question
    How do I install version 45?
    Evan Thomas
    Evan Thomas
    Community Answer
    If it is supported on your device, then the Firefox installer will say there's a new update. Press "Install." If it doesn't work, it's probably not supported on your device, you already have it, or you need to reinstall Firefox.
  • Question
    Can i have both Mozilla and Chrome on my PC?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Yes. Firefox and Chrome are separate from each other, and having one will not affect the other.
  • Question
    Can I have both Microsoft Edge and Firefox?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Yes. Both are separate apps and most computers and devices will allow you to have both at the same time. If not, select the one you most prefer.
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About This Article

Stan Kats
Co-authored by:
Cybersecurity Expert
This article was co-authored by Stan Kats and by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly. Stan Kats is the COO and Chief Technologist for The STG IT Consulting Group in West Hollywood, California. Stan provides comprehensive technology & cybersecurity solutions to businesses through managed IT services, and for individuals through his consumer service business, Stan's Tech Garage. Stan has over 7 years of cybersecurity experience, holding senior positions in information security at General Motors, AIG, and Aramark over his career. Stan received a BA in International Relations from The University of Southern California. This article has been viewed 237,868 times.
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Co-authors: 15
Updated: April 24, 2024
Views: 237,868
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 237,868 times.

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    Oct 26, 2017

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