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Why does Firefox open up to 20 windows without prompt?

  • 6 replies
  • 1 has this problem
  • 7 views
  • Last reply by cor-el

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When first opening Firefox, it is slow and choppy. Then it will start opening one Firefox window after another, up to and at times more than 20 windows. I close all the windows, but it will repeat this until I have to close it. I have uninstalled and re-installed it several times. This does not fix the problem. What can I do? I have used Firefox for years, but never had such a problem. I do not want to have to go back to IE. I am using Windows 10.

When first opening Firefox, it is slow and choppy. Then it will start opening one Firefox window after another, up to and at times more than 20 windows. I close all the windows, but it will repeat this until I have to close it. I have uninstalled and re-installed it several times. This does not fix the problem. What can I do? I have used Firefox for years, but never had such a problem. I do not want to have to go back to IE. I am using Windows 10.

All Replies (6)

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You can check for problems with the sessionstore.js file in the profile folder that stores session data. When sessionstore.js is deleted you lose pinned tabs and open tabs and you will have to recreate them, so if necessary make a note or bookmark them.

You can use this button to go to the current Firefox profile folder:

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The answer to my question was absolutely useless. For one thing, the links led me to info that was completely off subject. I need help, or I and many of my friends will stop using Firefox. We will also put up many disparaging coments in our blogs. I have never had this much trouble with Firefox in the past and am sorely disappointed in the product now. I am sorry to have to say that.

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Separate Issue; Your System Details shows;

Installed Plug-ins

Shockwave Flash 24.0 r0 Shockwave Flash 16.0 r0
Having more than one version of a program may cause issues. You must remove the older programs. Then get the current full installer.

Flash: Grab the uninstaller from here: Uninstall Flash Player | Windows Uninstall Flash Player | Mac

Then reinstall the latest version.

Note: Windows users should download the active_x for Internet Explorer. and the plugin for Plugin-based browsers (like Firefox).

Note: Windows 8 and Windows 10 have built-in flash players and Adobe will cause a conflict. Install the plugin only. Not the active_x.

Flash Player Version: 24.0.0.194

https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/ Direct link scans current system and browser Note: Other software is offered in the download. <Windows Only>

https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/otherversions/ Step 1: Select Operating System Step 2: Select A Version (Firefox, Win IE . . . .) Note: Other software is offered in the download. <Windows Only>


See if there are updates for your graphics drivers https://support.mozilla.org/kb/upgrade-graphics-drivers-use-hardware-acceleration

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What is in all of the unwanted tabs/windows?

Start Firefox in Safe Mode {web Link} by holding down the <Shift>
(Mac=Options)
key, and then starting Firefox. A small dialog should appear. Click Start In Safe Mode (not Refresh).

Is the problem still there?

While still in Safe Mode,

Type about:config<enter> in the address bar. If a warning screen comes up, press the Be Careful button. At the top of the screen is a search bar. Type browser.startup.homepage

What is the value? Right-click and select Reset to restore its default value; about:home

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You can check the home page setting.

Firefox supports multiple home pages separated by '|' (pipe) symbols.

You can check the startup setting.

  • Options/Preferences -> General -> Startup: "When Firefox starts":
    "Show my windows and tabs from last time"
    "Show my home page"
    "Show a blank page"

Modified by cor-el