Firefox Freezes & Forces Shutdown
Firefox is an open-source Web browser from Mozilla. Occasionally, the program will freeze -- also called hanging -- and force you to quit the program. In doing so, you'll lose information entered in Web forms, cancel downloads and terminate loaded videos. Usually problems with freezing can be solved easily and without advanced programming knowledge.
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Extensions and Themes
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Firefox enables the addition of open-source extensions and themes that customize the program. Because Mozilla doesn't monitor or test the code for extensions and themes, it can't guarantee the stability. Bad code can cause Firefox to hang, forcing you to shut down to get back online. To test, start Firefox in safe mode, which will temporarily disable all plug-ins. If the problem doesn't reoccur, switch to the default theme and then disable all extensions to isolate the problem.
Web and Computer Activity
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The way you use the Internet and other programs on your computer can cause Firefox to freeze. A computer can handle only so much activity at once; when it becomes overwhelmed, it will slow dramatically to catch up. When Firefox freezes, pay attention to the websites and programs that are open to spot a pattern and identify problem activity. In the short term, running Firefox with the minimum number of windows open and shutting down other software programs should allow it to run faster.
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Program Updates
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Occasionally, Mozilla releases new versions of Firefox that are designed to make it run smoothly. Without the update, the program may get hung up. The latest version is available for download on the Mozilla website. After you download and install, restart your computer so it recognizes the new version.
Places Database
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If Firefox hangs periodically, it may be due to a problem with your places database. According to Mozilla, creating a new places database can replace a corrupt version and help the program run smoothly. The option is available by choosing Troubleshooting Information from Firefox's Help menu. In the Application Basics tab, choose Show in Finder. Quit Firefox. Then rename the places.squlite and places.sqlite-journal files. Firefox will create new files automatically when you restart it.
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References
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