I started using Firefox in 2004. I mean, I was probably using beta releases before it was officially released. I think it was called m/b even? Anyway, it’s been a long time…
I’ve also been a supporter of Mozilla for a long time. I am a Thunderbird user (also for over 20 years) so it’s safe to say… I’m a fan, but…
Mozilla has made a lot of mistakes in recent years, and while I’m not about to switch to Safari or Chrome (or Chromium) I have switched to LibreWolf.
What is LibreWolf?
LibreWolf is a custom and independent version of Firefox, with the primary goals of privacy, security and user freedom.
LibreWolf is designed to increase protection against tracking and fingerprinting techniques, while also including a few security improvements. This is achieved through our privacy and security oriented settings and patches. LibreWolf also aims to remove all the telemetry, data collection and annoyances, as well as disabling anti-freedom features like DRM.
And most importantly, there is no AI in LibreWolf. They strip it out. This is the reason I switch. A few months back when I got sick of repeatedly disabling AI stuff in Firefox (and before they said they would add a “disable” button).
I also looked at Waterfox, but I could not get Firefox Sync to work. Sync is probably one of the most important features for me, since I use it on 5 computers, an iPad, and an iPhone on a daily basis.
I’ve come across very few issues with my switch to LibreWolf. I did have to mess with some of the more strict security settings when I started using it, but since then it’s been like using Firefox without the spying / data gathering.
I still have Firefox installed, but don’t use it much. LibreWolf has been great, and I’m glad I made the switch. I can also easily switch back, or still use Firefox if I need to since it’s just another browser in Firefox Sync I can synchronize all my settings to.
For now though, I will stick with LibreWolf.