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I can't update Firefox, and the mozilla page takes me round in circles.

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  • 1 has this problem
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  • Last reply by cor-el

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I keep getting update notifications, but can't update. When I try I am told to see the administrator. That is me! It is my computer and I run the thing! When I go to Mozilla and try to up date, the screens go from one to the next then back again in circles. I am running 43.0.4. and am unable to update to the latest version which is frustrating.

I keep getting update notifications, but can't update. When I try I am told to see the administrator. That is me! It is my computer and I run the thing! When I go to Mozilla and try to up date, the screens go from one to the next then back again in circles. I am running 43.0.4. and am unable to update to the latest version which is frustrating.

Chosen solution

If there a problem with updating or with the permissions then best is to download the full version and trash the currently installed version to do a clean (re)install of the current Firefox version.

Download a new copy of the Firefox application and save the Disk Image file to the desktop


Your personal data like bookmarks is stored in the Firefox profile folder, so you won't lose personal data when you uninstall and (re)install or update Firefox, but make sure NOT to remove personal data when you uninstall Firefox as that will remove all Firefox profile folders and you lose your personal data.

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Hmm, is the "See the Administrator" message coming from Firefox somewhere, or from MacOS X? It might help to post a screen shot if you can capture it. This article has tips on capturing screenshots: How do I create a screenshot of my problem? Please cut out or blur any sensitive information in the image before attaching it to your reply.

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The message is coming from Firefox. Next time it happens I'll grab a screen shot of it. I managed the update by heading into Mozilla and downloading it direct. I am now running 44.0.2 and I hope that is the latest one.

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Chosen Solution

If there a problem with updating or with the permissions then best is to download the full version and trash the currently installed version to do a clean (re)install of the current Firefox version.

Download a new copy of the Firefox application and save the Disk Image file to the desktop


Your personal data like bookmarks is stored in the Firefox profile folder, so you won't lose personal data when you uninstall and (re)install or update Firefox, but make sure NOT to remove personal data when you uninstall Firefox as that will remove all Firefox profile folders and you lose your personal data.