My Firefox keeps getting overrun by ASK, a search engine. How do I get rid of it?
I use Firefox as my primary connection to the web, with an aol home page. For some reason a search engine called ASK butted in, and covered the screen. I can only get on line with Internet explorer, which is too slow. I took Firefox out of the machine, and reloaded it.When I tried to get on, Ask covered the screen again. I don't know how to get rid of it and don't wish to use Internet Explorer!
All Replies (2)
Unfortunately, it is becoming more and more common for these kinds of "extras" (toolbars, security scanners, etc.) to be added to your browser/system/desktop when adding or updating other software, some from very well-know software vendors. You must carefully read information before downloading any "free" software and be very alert during the install process for any opportunity to opt-out of "extras" being installed.
If you have the Ask Toolbar
- First try to disable or uninstall the Ask Toolbar in Firefox via "Tools -> Add-ons -> Extensions". See: Disable or remove Add-ons
- In some cases, you may need to uninstall the Ask Toolbar using Windows Control Panel .
You MAY need to reset a preference
You may also need to reset preferences related to Ask.com via about:config, specifically the keyword.URL preference -
- Open a new tab or window.
- Type __about:config__ in the URL/address bar and press the Enter key
- If you see a warning, accept it (promise to be careful)
- Filter = keyword.url
- Right-click on the preference below the Filter, and choose Reset
- Restart Firefox (File > Restart Firefox)
- See: http://kb.mozillazine.org/Keyword.URL for details.
Also see:
I previously had gone to the control panel, and removed the ASK from the machine. It still does not show on the panel. I figured that when I took out Firefox totally, it would be gone with a firefox reload. NO, it covers the whole screen, and so I cannot do much on the screen. It will not reduce. I will print your comments, and If I cannot make it go, the machine with your comments will go to a local Geek. Thanks.