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Firefox 62.0.2 will not open a private window, why

  • 2 replies
  • 1 has this problem
  • 20 views
  • Last reply by cor-el
  • Solved

File new private window always opens a normal window

File new private window always opens a normal window

Chosen solution

Hello CJB1,

Maybe you have Firefox set to use automatic private browsing mode, in which case all windows look the same. Would you check your setting here:

"3-bar" menu button (or Tools) => Options => Privacy & Security

Under "History" choose "Firefox will : Use custom settings for history"

If there is a checkmark in the box for "Always use private browsing mode" then what you are seeing is normal. Automatic private browsing only has private windows and they are not marked specially.

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Chosen Solution

Hello CJB1,

Maybe you have Firefox set to use automatic private browsing mode, in which case all windows look the same. Would you check your setting here:

"3-bar" menu button (or Tools) => Options => Privacy & Security

Under "History" choose "Firefox will : Use custom settings for history"

If there is a checkmark in the box for "Always use private browsing mode" then what you are seeing is normal. Automatic private browsing only has private windows and they are not marked specially.

There are other things that need attention. The System Details list shows an outdated Flash plugin.

  • Shockwave Flash 28.0 r0

You can download the latest Flash player plugin for Firefox on this page.


Start Firefox in Safe Mode to check if one of the extensions ("3-bar" menu button or Tools -> Add-ons -> Extensions) or if hardware acceleration is is causing the problem.

  • switch to the DEFAULT theme: "3-bar" menu button or Tools -> Add-ons -> Appearance
  • do NOT click the "Refresh Firefox" button on the Safe Mode start window