Do you ever wonder why add-ons are disabled after updating Firefox? This is a common issue that can lead to a lot of wasted time.

Simply put, when Firefox updates it turns off any add-ons that are not compatible with the new version. In turn, you will need to know which steps to take in order to get your add-ons working again without delay.

Check for the Latest Versions of Your Add-ons

Although Firefox checks once per day for new versions of any add-ons you are running, you can also do so manually if you are having an issue. Follow these steps to get started:

1. From the menu bar, click the Tools menu and then Add-ons. This will open the add-ons tab.
2. Click Check for Updates. If any updates are found, they will be automatically downloaded.
3. Click the link that says “Restart now to complete installation.”

You can also search for updates on the website devoted to the particular add-on. Some publishers have different versions of their add-ons for different versions of the Firefox browser.

Tip: if you find that there is no version of the add-on that works for your particular version of Firefox, contact the publisher and ask if there is a solution.

Use the Add-on Compatibility Reporter

With the Add-on Compatibility Reporter, you can force Firefox to turn on any add-ons that have been disabled. Follow these steps to install:

1. Visit the Add-on Compatibility Reporter download page.
2. Click “Add to Firefox.”
3. When the installation window pops up click “install now.”
4. When the download is complete, click the “restart now” button.

Note: for your disabled add-ons to be turned on, you will need to restart Firefox a second time.

Select quit Firefox from the Firefox menu

Start Firefox the same way you always do – at this point your add-ons should be working

While the Add-on Compatibility Reporter can help, it may also cause your browser to crash from time to time. To fix this problem, you need to remove or disable the add-on that is causing the issue.

Find a Better Solution

You may be familiar with a particular add-on, however, it does not mean that it is your only option. There may be another add-on with similar features that work better with your current version of Firefox.

For example, many people who have issues with the Google Toolbar often switch to the popular GBookmarks add-on. If you find yourself asking why add-ons are disabled after updating Firefox, this information should help you find a solution.