Re-Enable Flash in Safari 10

Encountering Flash Installation Prompts in Safari?

Are you receiving prompts from websites requesting a Flash installation, despite already having it installed on your system? This issue arises from a recent change in how Safari handles Flash content.

Safari 10, Apple’s current desktop browser version, intentionally withholds information from websites regarding the presence of Adobe Flash. The intention is to encourage sites to adopt alternative, non-Flash solutions, mirroring the approach used on mobile platforms.

When this transition is successful, the user experience is improved with smoother playback and functionality like picture-in-picture. However, many websites still rely on Flash, leading to these repeated installation requests.

Sites Affected and Resolution

Problems have been reported with platforms such as Pandora, NHL.tv, and WatchESPN, and it’s likely numerous other sites are similarly impacted. The following steps will guide you through enabling Flash on a per-site basis to restore streaming functionality.

First, navigate to the website experiencing issues. Then, access Safari’s Preferences through the menu bar by selecting Safari > Preferences.

Within Preferences, click the "Security" tab, and subsequently, the "Plug-in Settings" button.

A submenu will appear, displaying currently open websites alongside any sites for which you’ve previously configured Flash settings.

Use the dropdown menu next to each site to enable Flash specifically for that domain. You also have the option to configure Safari to prompt you before utilizing Flash content.

At the bottom of the window, an option exists to enable Flash globally for "When Visiting Other Websites." We advise against this, as it often results in enabling intrusive advertisements.

Refresh the affected website, and functionality should now be restored.

Using the "Ask" Option

If you choose the "Ask" option, a notification will appear, requesting your permission to use Flash.

While potentially disruptive, this method ensures Flash is never activated without your explicit consent.

It’s important to note that minimizing Flash usage is generally advisable. We have previously recommended users disable Flash by default due to its performance impact and security vulnerabilities.

Many major platforms, including YouTube, Vimeo, and Netflix, have already transitioned away from Flash. Apple’s approach aims to accelerate this shift across the web.

However, this strategy currently results in user confusion, with individuals being incorrectly informed that Flash is not installed. A more effective method for encouraging web developers to abandon Flash is needed.