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.

Avatar for Username

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

This thread was archived. Please ask a new question if you need help.

Download settings keep reverting to default

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

llbresee
llbresee
more options

I have the download setting to "Always ask you where to save files". Unfortunately, Firefox keeps changing the setting back to the default. I understand that, unfortunately, whenever Firefox does an update it changes all my settings back to the defaults (but that's a different issue).

I have 'Firefox updates' set to only install when I okay the install. Unfortunately something is changing even when I have not run an update.

Why might my download settings be reverting back to the default setting?

I have the download setting to "Always ask you where to save files". Unfortunately, Firefox keeps changing the setting back to the default. I understand that, unfortunately, whenever Firefox does an update it changes all my settings back to the defaults (but that's a different issue). I have 'Firefox updates' set to only install when I okay the install. Unfortunately something is changing even when I have not run an update. Why might my download settings be reverting back to the default setting?

All Replies (3)

FredMcD
FredMcD
more options

https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/how-to-fix-preferences-wont-save

Note: Some software, like Advanced SystemCare with Surfing Protection, can protect files in the Firefox profile folder against changes. If you have such software then check the settings or uninstall this software.

llbresee
llbresee Question owner
more options

Fred, Thank you for your input. One important thing your reply pointed out is that I'd like to update my original question. Your reply seems geared to someone who is unable to get the desired "always ask..." setting to work. That's not my situation. I change the setting to "always ask...". It works for a few hours/days/weeks, then reverts to the default. I do not know what the variable is that allows the setting to be retained for weeks sometimes but only hours at other times. I hope that helps clarify the situation.

FredMcD
FredMcD
more options

Did you check the link I posted?


Profile data can be removed or not recorded in several ways;

  • 1) Running Firefox in Private Mode (nothing is recorded)
  • 2) Privacy settings; (In the address bar, type about:preferences#privacy<enter>)
  • 3) Many disk cleaners and anti-virus type programs can remove data from browsers
    Open their settings and have them leave the browsers alone.
  • 4) Mal-ware.