Ask isn't part of a standard Firefox installation when you download Firefox from an official download mirror.

http://www.mozilla.org/community/mirrors.html

Where are you getting your Firefox? The version available at mozilla.org doesn't include any add-ons: http://www.mozilla.org/firefox

For add-ons already installed on your system, try disabling/removing them here after you reinstall:

orange Firefox button or classic Tools menu > Add-ons > Extensions

In some cases, you need to uninstall third party toolbars using Windows' Control Panel. In Windows Vista/7 it's called Programs and Features, and in Windows XP it's called Add/Remove Programs.

Finally, after it's gone, you can try to clean up any changes they made to how search works. Please post back if/when needed about that step.

Thank you so much for your prompt replies - BUT

Edmeister - How do I download from official mirror? I get directory lists.

jscher2000 - I have downlloaded from www.mozilla.org. The download program says Different by Design.

Try:

• https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/addon/searchreset/

If there is a problem with the about:home Home page then try to reset the search engine used on the about:home page.

Reset the browser.startup.homepage_override.mstone pref via the right-click context menu to the default on the about:config page and close and restart Firefox to restore the about:home page to its default.

• Open the about:config page via the location bar
• Type in the Filter bar: mstone
• Right-click the browser.startup.homepage_override.mstone line and select: Reset
• Close and restart Firefox

If that didn't help then delete the delete the chromeappsstore.sqlite file in the Firefox Profile Folder and repeat the above.

SOLVED... After trying all of your suggestions, I went back to the download on Mozilla.org, and it downloaded from mirror.Karneval.cz This time it worked.

Thank you all, Heather