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No option to open downloads automatically anymore

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Hey there, recently had to perform a reset/refresh on my Mozilla due to some issues with lag (has fixed problem thus far), but in doing so lost all of my application opening settings - as in preferences -> applications. I now do not have the option to 'open with' or 'do this automatically from now on' with certain applications, for example torrents, as seen in my image attached. I was previously able to download a torrent and open with transmission automatically. I have tried all possible options and guides - https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/change-firefox-behavior-when-open-file#w_adding-download-actions - from here to no avail. Can anyone provide some clarity and/or solutions on the issue?

Hey there, recently had to perform a reset/refresh on my Mozilla due to some issues with lag (has fixed problem thus far), but in doing so lost all of my application opening settings - as in preferences -> applications. I now do not have the option to 'open with' or 'do this automatically from now on' with certain applications, for example torrents, as seen in my image attached. I was previously able to download a torrent and open with transmission automatically. I have tried all possible options and guides - https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/change-firefox-behavior-when-open-file#w_adding-download-actions - from here to no avail. Can anyone provide some clarity and/or solutions on the issue?

All Replies (4)

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Refresh Firefox {web link} is a LAST RESORT ! !

Refresh Firefox - reset add-ons and settings

If you're having problems with Firefox, refreshing it can help. The refresh feature fixes many issues by restoring Firefox to its default state while saving your essential information like bookmarks, passwords, and open tabs.


The add-ons that did that were removed. You must re-install them.


These can't get your data back, but will help in the future.

These add-ons can be a great help by backing up and restoring Firefox

FEBE (Firefox Environment Backup Extension) {web link} FEBE allows you to quickly and easily backup your Firefox extensions, history, passwords, and more. In fact, it goes beyond just backing up -- It will actually rebuild your saved files individually into installable .xpi files. It will also make backup of files that you choose.

OPIE {web link} Import/Export extension preferences

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Hi Fred,

I did not previously have an add-on installed to automatically open .torrent links. I understand that the torrent 'content type' in preferences -> applications disappeared since I performed the full refresh, however is there no way to modify the MIME.list to include torrent files/add the '.torrent' content type?

Instead of showing the 'open with' or 'do this automatically from now on' option, this is the only prompt that comes up when I download torrent files.

Modified by Amillionaire

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You can copy the mimeTypes.rdf from the "Old Firefox Data" folder on the desktop to the current profile folder.

You can use this button to go to the current Firefox profile folder:

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Hi Cor-el,

Unfortunately I have tried that option but I think it was unsuccessful seeing as I have refreshed Firefox twice now before attempting to copy to mimeTypes.rdf... Definitely an amateur mistake, (didn't realise how much of an impact refreshing firefox would have, was simply trying to fix a lag issue), but surely there is a way to add different 'content types' to the pref -> applications list? I am sure I have done it in the past without even knowing

Modified by Amillionaire