Reset Firefox preferences to troubleshoot and fix problems

Revision Information
  • Revision id: 26325
  • Created:
  • Creator: Swarnava Sengupta
  • Comment: added the Share this article template
  • Reviewed: Yes
  • Reviewed:
  • Reviewed by: Swarnava
  • Is approved? Yes
  • Is current revision? No
  • Ready for localization: No
Revision Source
Revision Content

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 through a lengthy troubleshooting process.

To reset preferences:

Click the menu button Fx89menuButton, click Help, select Troubleshoot Mode… and click Restart 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: firefox -safe-mode
You may need to specify the Firefox installation path (e.g. /usr/lib/firefox).

  1. Click to put a check mark by Reset all user preferences to Firefox defaults.

    89a0533be70261469542ad18a5b0fa00-1259976432-945-1.png


    89a0533be70261469542ad18a5b0fa00-1256947708-467-1.png
  2. To apply your changes, click Make Changes and Restart.

Firefox will restart with your preference settings changed back to the defaults.