This site will have limited functionality while we undergo maintenance to improve your experience. If an article doesn't solve your issue and you want to ask a question, we have our support community waiting to help you at @FirefoxSupport on Twitter and/r/firefox on Reddit.

Search Support

Avoid support scams. We will never ask you to call or text a phone number or share personal information. Please report suspicious activity using the “Report Abuse” option.

Learn More

videos using flash player keep freezing for several minutes

  • 2 replies
  • 1 has this problem
  • 3 views
  • Last reply by FredMcD

more options

For the last couple of weeks when I try to view a video that uses flash player. The video keeps freezing for several minute, the will play for a few minutes and freeze again. Flash player has always been problematic, but this is just plain ridiculous. I have had to completely give up trying to watch videos due to this. It sure would be nice if someone could create a video player that actually works. In my opinion flash player is a complete piece of crap and should be replaced!!!!

For the last couple of weeks when I try to view a video that uses flash player. The video keeps freezing for several minute, the will play for a few minutes and freeze again. Flash player has always been problematic, but this is just plain ridiculous. I have had to completely give up trying to watch videos due to this. It sure would be nice if someone could create a video player that actually works. In my opinion flash player is a complete piece of crap and should be replaced!!!!

All Replies (2)

more options

Make sure your Flash Player is up to date

Note: Windows users should download the ActiveX 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 ActiveX.

Flash Player Version: Version 29.0.0.171

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/en-US/kb/upgrade-graphics-drivers-use-hardware-acceleration

more options

Make sure you are not blocking content.

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?


One issue that seems more common lately is Firefox's Tracking Protection feature. When it is blocking content in a page, a shield icon will appear at the left end of the address bar next to the padlock icon. This article has more info on managing this feature: Tracking Protection {web link}