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shortcuts on desktop screen connecting to bookmarks

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The main screen (desktop) there were 4 rows of bookmarks connecting me (user) with the websites that are frequently connected. Recently after restarting the desktop computer, those shortcut bookmarks no longer display. Plus I'm unable to connect to the record of bookmarks previously saved using the star icon. (I hope this is a descriptive explanation to elicit assistance in this matter) [edited email from public support forum]

The main screen (desktop) there were 4 rows of bookmarks connecting me (user) with the websites that are frequently connected. Recently after restarting the desktop computer, those shortcut bookmarks no longer display. Plus I'm unable to connect to the record of bookmarks previously saved using the star icon. (I hope this is a descriptive explanation to elicit assistance in this matter) [edited email from public support forum]

Gewysig op deur James

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A number of Firefox users have reported problems with bookmarks and history in the past two weeks. I have not seen a good explanation of what is causing the problem, but it seems to be related to inability to access the "Places" database, the file that stores bookmarks and history. Here are my suggestions for addressing this:

(1) First try quitting and restarting Firefox

If you started Firefox right after you turned on or restarted Windows, there might be something happening at startup (such as CCleaner or Advanced SystemCare flushing browser data, or security software scanning files) that affects the Places database. Assuming some time has now passed, try quitting Firefox and starting it back up again to see whether Firefox can now get exclusive access to its files.

(2) Check for an error message

When Firefox cannot access the Places database, it sometimes will show an additional toolbar with the message "The bookmarks and history system will not be functional". There is a support article on this situation, but if you have the time and patience, I suggest trying the steps under #3 below before doing anything drastic.

Ref. Fix "The bookmarks and history system will not be functional" error message

(3) Try a database repair

First, if you haven't already, please do a normal shutdown and/or restart of your system. Restarting Windows can help by freeing up locked files, completing any deferred updates, and resolving temporary file permission issues.

Next, run the "Verify Integrity" diagnosis and repair function. That's here:

Open Firefox's Troubleshooting Information page using any of these methods:

  • "3-bar" menu button > Help > More Troubleshooting Information
  • (menu bar) Help > More Troubleshooting Information
  • type or paste about:support in the address bar and press Enter

Near the bottom, there is a section titled Places Database -- that's the file which stores history and bookmarks. Click the button labeled Verify Integrity. There may be a 10-15 second delay before results appear.

If all is well, the report that appears below the button should start with:

> Task: checkIntegrity
+ The places.sqlite database is sane
+ The favicons.sqlite database is sane
> Task: checkCoherence
+ The database is coherent
> Task: expire
+ Database cleaned up

et cetera

Does yours say the databases are sane and coherent, or something else? You can select and copy the report, and then paste it into a reply for review and comment.

Vra 'n vraag

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