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Firefox 59.0.2 linux, how to open a file ,instead of downloading it?

  • 4 replies
  • 1 has this problem
  • 6 views
  • Last reply by cor-el

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Hi, I need to find a way to open any file type without the need to download it first.

It was easy with an addon like opendownload2 ,but it's not compatible with v.59.

Some file types fortunately (like zip) can be opened straight , but is there a way to manually add more file types and set the app association ?

EDIT: I was expecting that on unknown file type, Firefox would ask me how to open the file. I read https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/change-firefox-behavior-when-open-file#w_changing-download-actions but did not help. On some webpages I can't 'open in' the file. If I drag the same file from my downloaded folder, then Firefox asks me to 'open in' the file. Strange....

Hi, I need to find a way to open any file type without the need to download it first. It was easy with an addon like opendownload2 ,but it's not compatible with v.59. Some file types fortunately (like zip) can be opened straight , but is there a way to manually add more file types and set the app association ? EDIT: I was expecting that on unknown file type, Firefox would ask me how to open the file. I read https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/change-firefox-behavior-when-open-file#w_changing-download-actions but did not help. On some webpages I can't 'open in' the file. If I drag the same file from my downloaded folder, then Firefox asks me to 'open in' the file. Strange....

Modified by SakisX

All Replies (4)

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This can happen if the server sends the file as a generic file type or as content-disposition via the HTTP response headers. Is such a case you may not be able to override the open with dialog and you only option is to save the file. You might be able to check this in the Network Monitor.

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Well ,I found this application/octet-stream

But I don't want to go to tech details, since I don't want to learn how stuff works under ,only use and enjoy them!

Firefox Quantum was supposed to be faster, but faster doesn't mean spending hours googling to make simple things work ;) (example: opening torrent/magnet files was not supported)

So, for a fast&simple solution I'll switch to another browser! EDIT: Even better ,I found Firefox ESR, at least I can use it few months more (until it updates)

Thank you for the reply!

PS.Could a mod change "downloading" to "saving" on the title ?

Modified by SakisX

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You may find answers to both your needs here. https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/search/?platform=windows&q=torrent%2Fmagnet

Please let us know if this solved your issue or if need further assistance.

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If a file is send as "application/octet-stream" then Firefox will always only offer to save the page. There is no workaround possible.