Buzz
In the latest Firefox release, Mozilla has updated Firefox 48 on both desktop and Android platforms. Additionally, the company has released Firefox 49 beta, Firefox 50 Developer Edition, Firefox Nightly 51, and Firefox ESR 45.3.
As known, Firefox is a high-speed web browser. Firefox also ranks in the top 10 best web browsers of 2016, receiving high praise from the user community. However, installing and effectively using Firefox for web browsing may not be obvious to everyone, as it remains a browser with many undiscovered mysteries.
Exciting New Features on Firefox 48
The software requirements for Firefox 48 remain similar to Firefox 47, supporting Windows XP SP2 and above, while the 64-bit version only supports Windows 7 and above. Hardware requirements include a Pentium 4 or newer processor, 512MB RAM, and 200MB of disk space. For Mac versions, computers need to run Mac OS 10.9 or later.
Firefox 48 introduces numerous enhancements that users can explore to maximize their browsing experience, similar to high-speed web browsers like Google Chrome, Coc Coc, or Opera.
Multi-process technology accelerates web browsing, improves performance, and enhances security.
The new Multi-Process feature impeccably separates Firefox's processing system from web content, significantly enhancing its stability and performance. This integration also bolsters the browser's security measures. However, Mozilla has yet to enable this feature by default for users. Hence, enabling it is imperative through about:support in Firefox's address bar.
Enhanced Download Protection on Firefox
Downloading data files from the internet garners considerable user interest, prompting publishers to implement better safeguards in their latest browser release. Firefox 48 introduces improved user protection against malicious code during downloads with its Safe Browsing feature. The browser automatically alerts users when attempting to download executable files containing potentially harmful adware or malware, ensuring a safer browsing experience.
Should users inadvertently download deceptive software, Firefox promptly notifies them with either a yellow dot (suspicion) or a red dot (warning). Upon clicking the download icon to view downloaded files, users are provided with the option to open or discard the downloaded files.
Blocking Third-Party Add-ons Without Certification
Add-ons not certified by Mozilla will be prohibited from running on Firefox 48. Firefox will display the message: “This add-on could not be installed because it has not been verified” when attempting to install any add-on not licensed. This feature aims to help users avoid potential dangers if they inadvertently install add-ons containing malicious code or viruses.
Some Other Changes:
- Tab key and Shift + F10 can now operate in the options mode.
- A catalog of defenses against malicious plugins.
- Introducing the New Get Add-ons Page.
- Mark or open tabs within Firefox's address bar with the “super-smart icon”.
Additionally, each version, including Developer or Nightly, will offer different features.
New Features on Firefox 48 for Android
Some noticeable changes in Firefox 48 for Android include the addition of frequently visited websites to the home screen. Users now have control over web notifications, as well as the ability to restore tabs to default settings in Advanced Settings.
Furthermore, Firefox 48 for Android offers clearer options for syncing browsing history. The Reading List has been moved to the Bookmarks settings. Firefox 48 for Android no longer supports Android 2.3. Meanwhile, Sync Tabs have been moved to the History tab.
There are numerous exciting features on Firefox, such as integrated add-ons for enhancing web browsing experience and offline web browsing features, which many users find delightful. Offline web browsing on Firefox typically requires users to have previously cached the entire website data in the browser and device memory. On the other hand, add-ons bring better experiences but often compromise security. However, security concerns can be easily addressed by using 5 security add-ons for Firefox.
