If you just switched to Firefox (from Chrome, Edge, or Safari), here is a practical guide to setting it up with the most useful extensions.
First, understand what Firefox has built-in
Firefox comes with more privacy features than Chrome by default:
- Enhanced Tracking Protection (blocks most trackers)
- Firefox Monitor (alerts you if your email appears in a data breach)
- DNS over HTTPS
- Container Tabs (separates sessions between sites)
You do not need to install extensions for these — they are on by default.
Recommended first extensions
Ad blocking: uBlock Origin is the best-in-class ad blocker for Firefox. Install it from Firefox Add-ons. It is free and open source.
New tab replacement: Choose one based on what you want visible when you open a new tab:
- Daily Planner — your to-do list
- Weather Clock — weather + time
- News Widget — headlines
Tab management: Tab Manager and Session Saver if you work across multiple projects.
Dark mode: NightOwl if you work in the evenings.
How to install extensions
- Click any "Install" link above (or go to addons.mozilla.org)
- Click "Add to Firefox"
- Click "Add" in the confirmation popup
The extension installs immediately. No restart required.
Managing installed extensions
Go to about:addons (type it in the address bar) to:
- Enable or disable extensions
- Remove extensions you no longer need
- Set extension keyboard shortcuts
- Review extension permissions
Keeping extensions minimal
Each extension uses memory and may slow page loading. Start with the essentials. Add more only when you find yourself needing a specific function.
The best extensions are the ones you actually use — not the ones that have the most features.
The new tab extensions listed are from a series I built — see the full series.
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