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How do I configure Firefox fonts to have the same letter quality as Safari or IE?

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  • Last reply by cor-el

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I've tried to configure or change the fonts in Firefox to achieve the same letter quality or clearness that I obtain in Apple Safari or IE. Is there a way to do this here? I've noticed that the default fonts for Safari for Windows, IE and Google Chrome as well as for Firefox are all the same but, the letter quality isn't. Why is this so? Thanks!

I've tried to configure or change the fonts in Firefox to achieve the same letter quality or clearness that I obtain in Apple Safari or IE. Is there a way to do this here? I've noticed that the default fonts for Safari for Windows, IE and Google Chrome as well as for Firefox are all the same but, the letter quality isn't. Why is this so? Thanks!

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Windows Start > Settings > Control Panel > Display, click Appearance tab, click Effects, check mark "Use the following method to smooth edges of screen fonts", under that option, use the pull-down and choose "ClearType", click OK until you are out. I can't remember, but you may need to restart your computer.


You need to update your plug-ins. It is important to keep them updated due to continuing security fixes and improvements in those plug-ins:

  • Adobe Shockwave for Director Netscape plug-in, version 11.0
  • Java Plug-in 1.5.0 for Netscape Navigator (DLL Helper)
  1. Check your plugin versions: http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/plugincheck/
    • Note: plugin check page does not have information on all plugin versions
  2. Update Shockwave for Director
    • NOTE: this is not the same as Shockwave Flash; this installs the Shockwave Player.
    • Use Firefox to download and SAVE the installer to your hard drive from the link in the article below (Desktop is a good place so you can find it).
    • When the download is complete, exit Firefox (File > Exit)
    • locate and double-click in the installer you just downloaded, let the install complete.
    • Restart Firefox and check your plugins again.
    • Download link and more information: http://support.mozilla.com/en-US/kb/Using+the+Shockwave+plugin+with+Firefox
  3. Update Java: https://support.mozilla.com/en-US/kb/Using+the+Java+plugin+with+Firefox
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See also http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306527 - HOW TO: Use ClearType to Enhance Screen Fonts in Windows XP