Reset Firefox preferences to troubleshoot and fix problems
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- Revision id: 24336
- Created:
- Creator: Michael Verdi
- Comment: New summary, added note about reset firefox, new intro (tried to clarify what this option is for)
- Reviewed: Yes
- Reviewed:
- Reviewed by: Verdi
- Is approved? Yes
- Is current revision? No
- Ready for localization: Yes
- Readied for localization:
- Readied for localization by: Verdi
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When troubleshooting Firefox problems, resetting preferences (zoom, tabs, privacy, network, encryption, download actions, etc.) is one of many procedures that can be helpful in pinpointing the issue. This article explains how to use Diagnose Firefox issues using Troubleshoot Mode to reset preferences.
Note: The Reset Firefox feature can fix many issues by restoring Firefox to its factory default state while saving your essential information. This resets many more things than just your preferences. Consider using it before going though a lengthy troubleshooting process.
- If changes to preference settings are not saved when you restart Firefox, see How to fix preferences that won't save.
To reset preferences:
Click the menu button 
, click , select and click in the Restart Firefox in Troubleshoot Mode? dialog.
Note: You can also start Firefox in Troubleshoot Mode by holding down the Shift key while starting Firefox.holding down the option key while starting Firefox.quitting Firefox and then going to your Terminal and running:
You may need to specify the Firefox installation path (e.g. /usr/lib/firefox).
firefox -safe-modeYou may need to specify the Firefox installation path (e.g. /usr/lib/firefox).
- Click to put a check mark by Reset all user preferences to Firefox defaults.
- To apply your changes, click .
Firefox will restart with your preference settings changed back to the defaults.