If you use Mozilla Firefox as your preferred web browser you may have encountered some problems when using it, especially if you have a Windows operating system. One common problem that many Firefox users seem to complain about is the slow download speed, and the fix to this problem is usually much simpler than it may first appear.

The Essentials

“Googling” the problem can give you a set of complicated instructions about changing configurations, but there is a simple fix that you should try first, and for most users will be sufficient. Cleaning out the temporary internet files, ensuring that JavaScript has been enabled and making sure that you have all the appropriate updates and virus protection is likely all you need to get Firefox running more smoothly and faster. Firefox stores data from all the web pages you have visited to enable them to download faster, but if too many of these files accumulate it can slow down your computer and your downloading speed. Here is a step by step guide to speeding up your downloads in Firefox!

Step 1: Clear Temporary Internet Files

This step should always be your first step in trying to troubleshoot internet problems, and should be part of your regular PC maintenance.

1. Click Tools from the Menu at the top.


2. Click the check boxes for Cookies and Cache.


3. Click Clear Private Data. You must close the program for the changes to take effect.


4. Do this at least once a week, or whenever you are using your computer on a public Wi-Fi network to protect your information.

Step 2:  Enable Javascript

JavaScript is required to run many dynamic elements included in web pages, and having it disabled can slow down your download speed, and make downloaded elements not run correctly.

1. Click Tools from the Menu at the top.


2. Click Options from the selections that appear. A new dialog box should appear.


3. Click the Content Icon. From the selections that appear, make sure that Enable JavaScript is checked.


4. Click the Advanced button. This will bring up a drop-down list.


5. Check all the applications that you want to enable JavaScript for.


6. Click OK. This will enable JavaScript.

Step 3:  Protect your Computer

The last thing you can do to make sure that Firefox will run at its maximum efficiency is to check for any viruses, update your antivirus protection and make sure you are running the latest version of Firefox.

1. Go to www.mozilla.com/firefox. This is the official site for the web browser and is where you can see if you have the latest version of the browser. If you don’t, download it for free.


2. If you have an antivirus software package, run a scan and download any updates that you may need.


3. If you don’t have an antivirus software package, or you want to be extra diligent in protecting your computer, you can submit files to http://www.virustotal.com. It is a great and free website where you can check any files on your computer to make sure they are virus free.

Following these simple steps can really make your download speed for Firefox faster and doesn’t require any complicated knowledge or steps, and making them part of your computer maintenance schedule will help keep it that way!