Waterfox

Waterfox is a fast, privacy-focused, and open-source web browser built on the Gecko rendering engine and designed for users who demand more control, customization, and respect for their digital privacy. As a fork of Mozilla Firefox, Waterfox inherits the robust performance and compatibility of its parent project while removing telemetry, sponsored content, and other data collection mechanisms that many privacy-conscious users find intrusive. The browser strikes a careful balance between modern web standards and support for legacy technologies, making it uniquely positioned for power users who want both cutting-edge features and the ability to run older extensions that mainstream browsers have abandoned.

One of Waterfox's standout features is its comprehensive extension compatibility. Unlike most modern browsers that have deprecated older add-on architectures, Waterfox continues to support legacy XUL and XPCOM add-ons alongside modern WebExtensions. This means users can install extensions from the Firefox Add-ons store, Chrome Web Store, and Opera Add-ons, giving them access to the widest possible selection of browser enhancements. Whether you're a developer who relies on specific tools, a privacy advocate who needs particular security extensions, or simply someone who misses the customization options of Firefox 56, Waterfox accommodates your needs without forcing you to choose between functionality and modernity.

Privacy is at the core of Waterfox's philosophy. The browser disables telemetry by default, removes Pocket integration, strips tracking parameters from shared links, and ensures that no personal browsing data is transmitted to external servers beyond basic update checks. Unlike mainstream browsers that monetize user data through advertising partnerships or analytics, Waterfox collects only essential technical information about your operating system and browser version to deliver updates effectively. This commitment to privacy doesn't come at the expense of usability—Waterfox maintains compatibility with modern websites, supports secure HTTPS connections, and includes built-in tracking protection to block third-party cookies and fingerprinting attempts.

Waterfox also excels in customization and power-user features. The browser supports userChrome.css and userContent.css for deep visual customization, offers vertical tabs and a customizable status bar for more efficient screen real estate management, and includes Private Tabs that let you open privacy-focused browsing sessions within the same window. Additional modern conveniences include new tab wallpapers with solid colors or custom uploads, comprehensive screenshot tools built directly into the browser, JPEG XL image format support for next-generation web graphics, and seamless Firefox profile import across Windows, macOS, and Linux (including Flatpak and Snap packages).

Performance is another area where Waterfox shines. As one of the first browsers to offer native 64-bit support, Waterfox has always prioritized speed and efficiency. The browser is optimized to handle multiple tabs without excessive memory consumption, loads pages quickly, and maintains smooth scrolling even on resource-intensive websites. Being open source and licensed under the Mozilla Public License (MPL), Waterfox benefits from community contributions and transparency, allowing users to audit the code and verify that privacy promises are kept. The development team remains committed to regular updates that incorporate security patches from Firefox ESR while maintaining the unique features that set Waterfox apart.

Recent improvements have focused on stability, security, and compatibility with modern web standards. The browser now supports advanced features like improved CSS Grid layouts, WebGL performance enhancements, and better JavaScript engine optimization. For users migrating from other browsers, Waterfox offers straightforward bookmark and password import tools, making the transition seamless. Whether you're a long-time Firefox user dissatisfied with recent changes, a privacy advocate seeking a trustworthy alternative to Chrome, or a developer needing extensive extension support, Waterfox delivers a compelling combination of freedom, performance, and respect for user autonomy that few browsers can match.