Firefox no longer works with Mac OS X 10.4 or PowerPC processors

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  • Revision id: 23291
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  • Creator: Michael Verdi
  • Comment: restructured
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  • Reviewed by: Verdi
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New versions of Firefox do not work with Mac OS X 10.4 or PowerPC processors. This article covers your upgrade options.

Note: This article only applies to Mac OS X.

Intel Processors

If you have an Intel processor and Mac OS X 10.4, your best option (secure and easy) is to upgrade Mac OS X. There is some cost involved with that so we've included some other options:

Option 1: Upgrade Mac OS X

You should upgrade to the latest Mac OS X (10.7). This is the most secure option and will allow you to run the latest and greatest Firefox.

Option 2: Continue using Firefox 3.6

If you can't upgrade Mac OS X, you can continue using Firefox 3.6.
Warning: You will be using unsupported software on an unsupported operating system which poses a significant security risk.

Option 3: Switch to Linux

If you can't upgrade Mac OS X but want to keep your computer and information secure, you can replace Mac OS X with Linux. Linux is a free and open source operating system that will allow you to run the latest Firefox.
Warning: This option is only for advanced computer users. Replacing Mac OS X with Linux will require you to erase your hard drive. Also, applications that you purchased for Mac OS X will not work on Linux.

PowerPC Processors

If you have a PowerPC processor you won't be able to upgrade MacOS X. For most people the best option will be to switch to a newer computer. There is some cost involved with that so we've included some other options:

Option 1: Switch to a Mac with an Intel processor

Although getting a newer computer can involve significant cost, a newer Mac will provide a much better experience and allow you to keep Firefox and Mac OS X updated and secure.

Option 2: Continue using Firefox 3.6

If you can't replace your computer, you can continue using Firefox 3.6.
Warning: You will be using unsupported software on an unsupported operating system which poses a significant security risk.

Option 3: Switch to Linux

If you can't replace your computer but want to keep it and your information secure, you can replace Mac OS X with Linux. Linux is a free and open source operating system that will allow you to run the latest Firefox.
Warning: This option is only for advanced computer users. Replacing Mac OS X with Linux will require you to erase your hard drive. Also, applications that you purchased for Mac OS X will not work on Linux.