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Firefox 90 removed the browser’s built-in ability to open FTP resources. Mozilla’s main reason was security: FTP sends data in cleartext, and Firefox’s HTTPS protections do not cover FTP connections. If you click an ftp:// link now, Firefox does not fetch it itself; the link must be handled by an external application or a browser extension registered for that protocol.
What changed in Firefox 90?
Mozilla first offered Firefox 90.0 to Release channel users on July 13, 2021. The release removed built-in FTP support. FTP had already been disabled by default in Firefox 88, before Mozilla removed the implementation in version 90. Mozilla’s Firefox 90 release notes record the change.
In practical terms, Firefox 90 no longer retrieves or displays FTP resources itself. Changing a Firefox preference cannot restore the removed built-in implementation.
Why did Mozilla remove FTP?
FTP transmits data in cleartext, which can allow an attacker to read, spoof, or modify data in transit. Mozilla also cited FTP servers that had been compromised and used in malware distribution campaigns. Mozilla’s security explanation notes that protections such as HSTS and Firefox’s HTTPS-Only Mode do not apply to FTP connections.
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- 𝐔𝐒𝐁 𝟑.𝟎 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐬- Powered via USB 3.0, this adapter provides high-speed Gigabit Ethernet without the need for external power(10/100/1000Mbps). Backward compatible with USB 2.0/1.1, it ensures reliable performance across a wide range of devices.
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Mozilla described the decision as ending support for an outdated and insecure protocol. The concern is not simply that an FTP link looks old: the protocol lacks the protections Firefox applies to HTTPS, so Firefox cannot make an FTP connection secure by automatically upgrading it.
How can you open an FTP link now?
Firefox can pass an FTP link to another handler, but it does not open the FTP resource itself. Mozilla described two possible routes after disabling FTP: an external application registered to handle the protocol, or a browser extension that registers as an FTP protocol handler. Mozilla’s add-ons post explains these handler options.
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- Connects a USB 3.0 device (computer/laptop) to a router, modem, or network switch to deliver Gigabit Ethernet to your network connection. Does not support Smart TV or gaming consoles (e.g.Nintendo Switch).
- Supported features include Wake-on-LAN function, Green Ethernet & IEEE 802.3az-2010 (Energy Efficient Ethernet)
- Supports IPv4/IPv6 pack Checksum Offload Engine (COE) to reduce Cental Processing Unit (CPU) loading
- Compatible with Windows 8.1 or higher, Mac OS
- Use an external application: Install or choose an FTP-capable client, then configure your operating system to use it for
ftp://links. The exact steps depend on your operating system and its protocol-handler settings. Check that the client is maintained and comes from a source you trust. - Use a browser extension: An extension may register to handle FTP links and pass them to an appropriate service or application. Check its publisher, maintenance status, permissions, and compatibility before relying on it; Mozilla’s documentation describes the category, not a specific endorsed extension.
If Firefox does not offer a handler when you click a link, check whether your operating system has an FTP application registered and whether the extension you intend to use is installed and enabled. An FTP handler does not change the security properties of FTP itself, so use it only when you trust the server and understand the risks of sending data without encryption.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What does the change mean for developers?
Web pages and applications should not assume Firefox can fetch an ftp:// resource. A link may be delegated to an external application or an extension that has registered as a protocol handler; it is not a request that Firefox 90 will retrieve internally. Mozilla’s Firefox 90 developer notes also state that the ftpProxy capability is no longer evaluated after FTP support was removed.
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- [Convertible Connector]This usb hub with ethernet not only has USB-A connector, but also can be converted to USB-C connector, so that you can easily convert the connector according to the device port, improve the convenience of use.
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