FireFox is a web browser created by Mozilla, the original creators of the Netscape series of browsers. Version one was released in November 2004. It quickly gained new fans because of its open source license and multitude of features. Multiple new versions have
been released since 2004, with each update adding more features and improved security.
been released since 2004, with each update adding more features and improved security.
Open source means that the source code for the program is available to anyone who cares to download it. Any programmer can use the initial code to develop FireFox, whether they are creating customized options for themselves or working to improve the browser for all users. Being open source makes FireFox infinitely adaptable.
Some of FireFox's specialized features include pop-up blockers and advanced privacy settings. FireFox also offers tabbed browsing. You can open more than one website in your browser window, and tabs on the screen allow you to easily switch between them.
The browser also has several advanced search options. There is a Google search built into the toolbar, but that's not necessarily unique. What makes FireFox stand out is the ability to create Smart Keywords that will work with your favorite sites the same way a Google toolbar search does. You can go straight to the information you want without having to visit unnecessary websites and menus. In addition, a specialized Find bar allows you to search for text within a site without having to bring up any additional editing prompts.
FireFox can be a highly personalized browser, and not just for programmers who can download the source code and tweak the browser to fit their needs. The average user can modify his or her toolbar look and settings, and download extensions and themes. Themes simply change the look of the browser while extensions provide additional capabilities like mouse gestures or games. Hoping to win computer users over from other browsers, FireFox features quick downloading and easy importability of settings like bookmarks and passwords from other products.
