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I need a command (CMD command) that would set Firefox to never check for updates

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  • Last reply by cor-el

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In a response to a post on some Mozilla forum (sorry, don't remember where that is), a Mozilla tech says that the Firefox setting to never check for updates is a computer setting. If the admin sets FF not to check for updates, it will be that way for all users that logon to that computer. My testing shows clearly and without doubt that this is a user setting saved in the roaming profile. Even if I set FF to never check for updates, other users that logon, have the default setting, to automatically install updates.

I need a command that would set FF to never check for updates. If that exists, I'd add that to the logon script for my users.

If anyone knows of such a command, puh-leez share your knowledge :). Combed through documentations of commands, no find :(

In a response to a post on some Mozilla forum (sorry, don't remember where that is), a Mozilla tech says that the Firefox setting to never check for updates is a computer setting. If the admin sets FF not to check for updates, it will be that way for all users that logon to that computer. My testing shows clearly and without doubt that this is a user setting saved in the roaming profile. Even if I set FF to never check for updates, other users that logon, have the default setting, to automatically install updates. I need a command that would set FF to never check for updates. If that exists, I'd add that to the logon script for my users. If anyone knows of such a command, puh-leez share your knowledge :). Combed through documentations of commands, no find :(

All Replies (3)

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Hi BenjaminLindner,
Sorry, I guess that indicates you are having some sort of problem with Firefox.

I don't often use Firefox on Windows but AFAIK it can be prevented from updating on Windows if you are the Administrator and the other uses are on your computer using limited accounts.

Or are you talking as an administrator of a network of Computers, in which case a special Release of Firefox may be more appropriate.

To give the correct advice it helps if I know more about the situation.

Not updating Firefox is usually considered bad practice.

Once a new Released out and security fixes are made and publicised there are unfortunately people who take advantage of the exploits and that puts your System and Personal Data at an increased risk.
Those with strong reasons for using an insecure version and understanding the risks may take appropriate steps to mitigate the risk. Possibly using a Virtual Machine, maybe having a well rehearsed bare metal restore procedure.

Perhaps if you say why you do not wish to upgrade we may be able to suggest a suitable way forward with an upgrade and some sort of workaround.

If the problem relates to Firefox 29 these articles may help

It may also be worth noting that Fx29 now respects the setting to not upgrade until you agree. Firefox 28 upgraded regardless of the setting if you used the about dialogue to check the version.

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Press the <Alt Key> to bring up the tool bar. Then Tools > Options > Advanced > Update.

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You can use a mozilla.cfg file in the Firefox program folder to lock prefs or specify new (default) values.

Place a local-settings.js file in the defaults\pref folder where also the channel-prefs.js file is located to specify using mozilla.cfg.

pref("general.config.filename", "mozilla.cfg");

These functions can be used in the mozilla.cfg file:

defaultPref();	// set new default value
pref();		// set pref, but allow changes in current session
lockPref();	// lock pref, disallow changes

See: