Table of Contents
- Why Does Firefox Keep Asking You to Restart? Proven Fixes for the “Restart to Keep Using Firefox” Error
- What Causes the “Restart to Keep Using Firefox” Message?
- Solutions to Fix and Prevent the “Restart to Keep Using Firefox” Message
- Solution 1: Adjust Firefox Update Settings
- Solution 2: Remove the Background Update Service
- Solution 3: Block Firefox from Using the BITS Service
- Solution 4: Fully Disable Automatic Updates (Advanced Users)
Why Does Firefox Keep Asking You to Restart? Proven Fixes for the “Restart to Keep Using Firefox” Error
When Firefox displays the “Restart to keep using Firefox” message, it means an update was installed in the background and the browser needs a restart to finish the process. This often interrupts your workflow and can cause loss of unsaved work.
What Causes the “Restart to Keep Using Firefox” Message?
Firefox uses a background update service to automatically download and install updates. Once an update is ready, Firefox requires a restart to replace old files with new ones. The message appears on every new tab until you restart, blocking access to websites and disrupting your tasks.
Solutions to Fix and Prevent the “Restart to Keep Using Firefox” Message
Solution 1: Adjust Firefox Update Settings
- Open Firefox Settings (Menu > Settings or type about:preferences in the address bar).
- Scroll to the “General” tab and find the “Firefox Updates” section.
- Choose one of these options:
- Keep automatic updates, but only install when Firefox is not running: Enable “Automatically install updates (recommended)” and check “When Firefox is not running.“
- Manually control updates: Select “Check for updates but let you choose to install them.” This prevents automatic installation and the restart prompt will only appear when you decide to update.
Solution 2: Remove the Background Update Service
- Open Control Panel (WIN + R, type control, press Enter).
- Go to “Programs” > “Uninstall a program.”
- Select “Mozilla Maintenance Service” and click “Uninstall.”
- Alternatively, delete the scheduled task for Firefox updates or apply a Registry policy to block it.
Solution 3: Block Firefox from Using the BITS Service
Firefox may use Windows’ Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) to download updates even when closed. Disabling BITS for Firefox stops background downloads and installations.
Solution 4: Fully Disable Automatic Updates (Advanced Users)
- Turn off all automatic updates in Firefox.
- Manually download and install new versions when convenient.
- Your bookmarks and browsing data remain safe during manual upgrades.
Taking control of Firefox updates ensures you work without interruptions and on your terms. Choose the method that best fits your technical comfort level and needs.