Alex Ruben
Update Firefox to Avoid Add-On Issues Before Certificate Expiration
On March 14, 2025, a significant root certificate will expire, impacting the verification of signed content and add-ons across various Mozilla projects, including Firefox. Failing to update to Firefox version 128 or higher (or ESR 115.13+ for Extended Support Release users) could result in disruptions for users relying on these add-ons. This guide walks you through the necessary steps to update your Firefox browser and ensure continuity in your browser extensions and overall functionality.
Step 1: Check Your Current Firefox Version
Before you proceed with any updates, it’s essential to know your current version of Firefox. This can help you determine if you need to update. To check your version:
- Open Firefox on your computer.
- Click on the menu button (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner.
- Select Help from the dropdown menu.
- Click on About Firefox.
A window will appear showing your current version number. If it is below version 128, continue to the next step for an update.
Step 2: Update Firefox to the Latest Version
Updating Firefox is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure you have the latest version:
- With the About Firefox window still open, Firefox will automatically check for updates. If an update is available, it will begin downloading.
- Once the download is complete, click the Restart to Update Firefox button.
Upon restarting, your Firefox browser should be updated to the latest version. If you are an ESR user, ensure you have updated to version 115.13 or higher for continued support on Windows and macOS.
Step 3: Verifying Your Update
After updating, it’s crucial to verify that your browser is now at the required version:
- Repeat the steps from Step 1 to check your Firefox version.
- Confirm that the version displayed is now 128 or higher (or 115.13+ for ESR users).
This confirmation step ensures that you have successfully mitigated any issues related to the certificate expiration.
Step 4: Explore and Update Your Add-ons
Once Firefox is updated, take a moment to check your installed add-ons as well. Some older extensions may need updates to function properly with the new browser version. Here’s how you can do that:
- Select the menu button again and click on Add-ons and Themes.
- In the left sidebar, choose Extensions.
- Review your add-ons; if any require updates, you will see an Update button next to them.
- Click on Update for each add-on that requires it.
Keeping your extensions updated prevents potential issues with functionality as you work with the latest version of Firefox.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some tips to enhance your experience while updating and using Firefox:
- Regularly check for Firefox updates to ensure smooth operation and security.
- Consider enabling automatic updates in Firefox settings under General so you never miss critical updates.
- If you encounter issues during the update, restarting your computer can sometimes resolve any lingering problems.
By following these tips, you can minimize disruptions and maintain a seamless browsing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my Firefox won’t update?
If you encounter difficulties with Firefox updates, consider downloading the latest version manually from the official Firefox website.
Will my add-ons still work after updating?
Most add-ons should work after you update Firefox. However, it’s essential to ensure they are also updated to their latest versions to avoid compatibility issues.
How can I update my Firefox ESR version?
Updating the ESR version is similar to the regular version. Follow Steps 1 and 2 to check and update to the latest ESR version, ensuring it’s at least 115.13 for compatibility standards.