How to Reset Firefox to its Default State

This is a guide on how to reset Firefox to its default state when you start getting some issues. It is a better method over uninstalling and installing again. Many people around the world use Mozilla Firefox as their browser of choice. The browser sometimes is affected by problems like slowness and frequent crashing. It is possible to reset your Firefox browser to its default state and end up solving some of these problems. This can be useful when you want to go back to the original settings of the browser. Resetting the browser will also help solve problems such as:

• Unwanted toolbars such as the notorious Ask Toolbar
• The slowness of the browser
• Help solve crashing problems
• It will save you much time trying to troubleshoot and solve problems
• You do not have to uninstall and then install it again as the reset will solve most of the problems that you will be experiencing

What Happens When You Reset Firefox to its Default State

Once you initiate this process, the following happens;

• Removal of themes and extensions
• Closing of open windows, tabs, and tabs groups.
• Removal of some site-specific preferences such as search engine’s security certificate settings, toolbar customizations, download actions, and download history among others.
• Removing of all Firefox services.

Old Firefox Data Folder

During the reset process, your old Firefox profile information will be placed in a folder called ‘old Firefox data’ on your desktop. You can be able to restore some of the information you may need to your new profile. Delete the folder once you remove important data you want. This is in order to safeguard your sensitive information.

Data That Will Be Retained During Reset Process

The following data might be retained when you reset Firefox;

• Browsing history
• Bookmarks
• Personal dictionary
• Cookies
• Auto-fill information of web forms

How to Reset Your Firefox Browser to Default State

• Make sure your browser is open and go to the Help menu, click on it. Proceed to select the Troubleshooting Information option. A window will appear showing the troubleshooting information.
• Click on the Refresh Firefox button. It is located at the upper right-hand side – where it is written ‘give your Firefox a tune-up’. A warning that Firefox will be reset to its initial state, Firefox will restart and everything else will be removed will be displayed.
• Proceed and click on Reset Firefox. Firefox will automatically close before restarting itself.
• Click on the finish button. Now you have a cleaner, faster, and error-free Firefox.

Firefox Will Save These Items:

• Bookmarks
• Browsing history
• Passwords
• Open windows, tab groups, and tabs
• Cookies
• Web form auto-fill information
• Personal dictionary