Firefox no longer works with some versions of Windows XP

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  • Revision id: 130375
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  • Creator: Chris Ilias
  • Comment: shortened sentence about sys req, switched headings from questions to titles, and provided reasons for each case
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This article only applies to Firefox on Windows.

Windows XP with Service Pack 2 is the minimum Windows version that meets the Firefox System Requirements. We'll explain how to find out your Windows XP version and what to do if you're using Service Pack 1 or below.

Note: In all cases, it's best to upgrade to the latest version of Windows, if you are able to. Microsoft no longer provides security patches for Windows XP.

How to check which Windows XP Service Pack is installed on your computer

  1. Click on the Windows Start button and open the Control Panel.
  2. Click on the Performance and Maintenance link (Category View only), then click on System to open the System Properties window.
  3. In the System Properties window, select the General tab. Within the information in the General tab, it will tell you which service pack is installed (if one is installed).
WinXP-SP3

Service Pack 2 or 3

If it says Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3, you need the required Windows update. For more information, see How can I get the latest version of Firefox on Windows XP or Vista?

Service Pack 1 or nothing at all

If it says Service Pack 1 or nothing at all, your system doesn't meet the Firefox system requirements. The only popular web browser that is still being updated with security patches for older versions of Windows XP is Opera.

To download and install Opera, visit the Opera website.

Note: Opera 36 is the last supported version for Windows XP. According to the Opera May 4, 2016 release notes, As of Opera 37, the minimal system requirement for Windows users is Windows 7. Windows XP and Vista will no longer receive feature updates, only security and stability updates.