Download Firefox Without Internet Explorer - Stupid Geek Tricks
Bypassing Internet Explorer for Firefox Installation
A common sentiment among tech enthusiasts is that Internet Explorer's primary function is to facilitate the download of alternative browsers like Firefox or Chrome. However, for those who actively avoid using IE, Windows offers a native FTP solution to install Firefox without ever launching the browser.
While directly downloading Firefox from Mozilla’s website via Internet Explorer is a straightforward option, a more unconventional approach exists for those seeking a technically engaging method.
Utilizing Windows FTP Support
This method centers around Firefox specifically, as Mozilla maintains a publicly accessible FTP server. Currently, Google does not provide a similar FTP resource for Chrome downloads.
Employing this technique can prove beneficial when Internet Explorer experiences instability or malfunctions, preventing normal operation.
Benefits of FTP Installation
- Avoids IE Dependency: Installs Firefox without requiring Internet Explorer to be functional.
- Alternative Download Method: Provides a workaround when IE is unavailable or unreliable.
- Technical Exercise: Offers a more involved and potentially satisfying installation process.
Essentially, Windows’ built-in FTP client allows users to connect directly to Mozilla’s servers and retrieve the Firefox installation files. This circumvents the need to utilize Internet Explorer altogether.
This approach demonstrates a resourceful way to leverage existing system tools for software installation, particularly when facing challenges with a default browser.
Accessing Firefox via FTP with Windows Explorer
To connect to Mozilla's FTP server utilizing Windows Explorer, simply input the address ftp://ftp.mozilla.org into the Explorer address bar and confirm with the Enter key.
The necessary directory for downloading can then be located.
Navigating to the Firefox Release Folder
Specifically, you should navigate to this folder path: pub/firefox/releases/latest/win32/en-US/.
Alternatively, a direct path can be entered into Windows Explorer for immediate access to the desired folder on Mozilla’s FTP server.
Direct FTP Address
The complete address is: ftp://ftp.mozilla.org/pub/firefox/releases/latest/win32/en-US/.
Once in the correct directory, the Firefox Setup executable file can be copied to your computer.
This can be accomplished through several methods.
- Drag and drop the file.
- Utilize the "Copy To Folder" option from the right-click context menu.
- Employ a standard Copy and Paste operation.
The Firefox installer will be downloaded to your system via Windows Explorer, bypassing the need for Internet Explorer.
Following the download, the Firefox Setup application can be launched to begin the installation process.
This method provides a direct way to obtain the Firefox installer without relying on a web browser.
Utilizing the Command Line Interface with Command Prompt
For those seeking a more advanced approach, Firefox can also be downloaded employing the ftp utility integrated within the Windows Command Prompt.
Initiate a Command Prompt window via the Start menu, then input the subsequent command to establish a connection with Mozilla’s FTP server:
ftp ftp.mozilla.org
Enter anonymous when prompted for a login, and simply press Enter, leaving the password field empty.
To navigate to the directory containing the most recent Firefox release, utilize this command:
cd pub/mozilla.org/firefox/releases/latest/win32/en-US
Subsequently, execute the following command to display a listing of the files present within that directory:
ls
The get command is then used to download the latest Firefox installer to your computer’s hard drive:
get “Firefox Setup 15.0.1.exe”
Ensure you substitute the filename in the command with the name corresponding to the current version, as shown in the output of the ls command.
The downloaded Firefox Setup .exe file will be saved to your user directory, typically located at C:\Users\NAME.
Additional FTP Functionality
Beyond downloading Firefox, the Windows Command Prompt’s ftp functionality extends to connecting with other FTP servers you may have access to.
If you possess upload permissions on an FTP server, these tools can also be utilized for file uploads, potentially negating the need for dedicated third-party FTP software.