Mozilla Extends Support for Firefox ESR 115 on Legacy Windows and macOS Versions Until March 2026

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Mozilla Announces Extended Support for Legacy Firefox Users

Published September 5, 2025

In a surprising move, Mozilla has once again extended support for Firefox extended Support Release (ESR) 115, specifically for users operating on older operating systems. The decision impacts individuals still relying on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and macOS versions 10.12 through 10.14. This extension, pushing the support deadline too March 2026, highlights Mozilla’s commitment to a important segment of its user base.

A History of Extensions

Initially released in July 2023, Firefox 115 ESR was originally slated to be the final version compatible with these older platforms. The initial support window was set to conclude in September 2024. However, Mozilla has repeatedly pushed back this deadline, first to April 1, 2025, then to September 2025, and now to March 2026. This pattern demonstrates the company’s responsiveness to ongoing user needs.

Why the Continued Support?

The persistence of users on older operating systems is the primary driver behind these extensions.Recent data from Mozilla reveals that approximately 6.769% of Firefox users are still utilizing Windows 7. Combined with users on Windows 8 and 8.1, the number represents a notable portion of the Firefox community. According to statcounter data from August 2025, Windows 7 still holds a 2.78% desktop operating system market share globally, proving that a continued need for compatible software exists.

Did You Know? Firefox ESR releases are specifically designed for organizations and users who prioritize stability and long-term support over the latest features.

What This Means for Users

For those still using these older operating systems, the extended support for Firefox 115 ESR offers a critical lifeline. It ensures continued access to a modern web browser with essential security updates. Mozilla strongly advises users on supported operating systems to upgrade to Firefox ESR 128 or newer versions to benefit from the latest enhancements and security features.

However, Mozilla also cautions against prolonged use of unsupported operating systems, emphasizing the inherent security risks. The company suggests considering lightweight Linux distributions, such as Mint, as a viable choice for older hardware. These distributions can offer improved performance and continued security updates.

Operating System	Original Support End Date	Current Support End date
Windows 7	September 2024	March 2026
Windows 8/8.1	september 2024	March 2026
macOS 10.12-10.14	September 2024	March 2026

Pro Tip: Regularly update your Firefox browser, even within the ESR version, to ensure you have the latest security patches and bug fixes.

Looking Ahead

mozilla intends to reassess the situation in February 2026 to determine whether further extension of support for Firefox 115 ESR is warranted. The decision will likely hinge on the continued prevalence of users on these legacy platforms and the evolving security landscape.

Maintaining Browser Security

Keeping your web browser up-to-date is paramount for online security. Outdated browsers are vulnerable to exploits that can compromise your data and privacy. Regularly installing updates ensures you have the latest security patches and protection against emerging threats. Beyond browser updates,employing strong passwords,enabling two-factor authentication,and practicing safe browsing habits are crucial steps in safeguarding your digital life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Firefox ESR?

Firefox ESR stands for Extended Support Release. It’s a version of Firefox designed for organizations and users who need a stable browser with long-term support.

why is Mozilla extending support for older systems?

Mozilla is extending support because a significant number of users are still running older operating systems and rely on Firefox.

Is it safe to use an unsupported operating system?

No, using an unsupported operating system is risky as it no longer receives security updates, making it vulnerable to threats.

What should I do if I’m using an unsupported operating system?

Consider upgrading your operating system or switching to a lightweight Linux distribution like Mint.

Where can I find more data about Firefox ESR?

You can find more information about Firefox ESR on the official Mozilla website.

What are your thoughts on Mozilla’s decision to extend support? Do you think it’s the right move for users and the company? Share your opinions in the comments below!

How does the extended support for firefox ESR 115 mitigate security risks for organizations still using Windows 7 and 8.1?

Mozilla has announced a notable extension to its support timeline for Firefox Extended Support Release (ESR) 115,specifically for users operating on older Windows and macOS versions. This decision provides continued security updates and stability for organizations and individuals who haven’t yet transitioned to newer operating systems. The extended support now runs until March 2026, offering a crucial lifeline for maintaining a secure browsing experience.

Understanding Firefox ESR and its Importance

Firefox ESR is a focused release of Firefox designed for organizations and users prioritizing stability and long-term support. Unlike the standard Firefox release, which receives frequent updates, ESR versions are updated less ofen, typically every four to six weeks with critical security patches and bug fixes. This makes it ideal for environments where frequent changes can disrupt workflows or require extensive testing.

Key Benefits of Firefox ESR:

Reduced testing overhead.

Predictable release cycle.

Enhanced stability for critical applications.

Long-term security maintenance.

Which Operating Systems are Affected?

The extended support applies to Firefox ESR 115 running on the following legacy operating systems:

Windows 7: While officially end-of-life from Microsoft, many businesses still rely on Windows 7 for specific applications.

Windows 8.1: Similar to Windows 7, some organizations continue to use Windows 8.1.

macOS 10.14 (Mojave): Apple’s Mojave is no longer receiving official security updates from Apple, making Firefox ESR’s continued support vital.

macOS 10.15 (Catalina): Also past Apple’s official support window, Catalina users benefit from this extension.

This extension is particularly critically important given the increasing security risks associated with using unsupported operating systems. Without regular security updates, these systems become vulnerable to exploits and malware.

Why the Extension? Addressing User Needs and Security Concerns

Mozilla’s decision to extend support for Firefox ESR 115 is a direct response to feedback from its user base. Many organizations and individuals expressed concerns about the challenges and costs associated with upgrading operating systems, especially in complex IT environments.

The primary driver behind this extension is security. By continuing to provide security updates for these older platforms, Mozilla is mitigating the risk of vulnerabilities and protecting users from potential threats. This proactive approach demonstrates Mozilla’s commitment to user security, even on legacy systems.

What Does this Mean for Users?

For users on the supported legacy operating systems, this extension means continued access to a secure and stable web browser. You can continue using Firefox ESR 115 with the confidence that you’re receiving critical security updates until March 2026.

Automatic Updates: Firefox ESR will continue to receive automatic security updates provided that you are using version 115.

No Immediate Action required: If you are currently using Firefox ESR 115 on a supported operating system, no immediate action is needed.

Planning for the Future: While this extension provides a temporary solution, it’s crucial to plan for an eventual upgrade to a supported operating system to ensure long-term security and compatibility.

Firefox Security Features: A Deeper Dive

Firefox incorporates several robust security features that contribute to a safer browsing experience. These include:

Tracking Protection: Blocks trackers and cookies that follow you across the web.

Enhanced Tracking Protection: Offers stricter protection against trackers, including cryptominers and fingerprinters.

phishing and Malware Protection: Identifies and blocks phishing websites and malicious downloads.

Sandboxing: Isolates web content to prevent malicious code from affecting your system.

Regular Security Updates: Delivers timely patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities.

Transitioning to Supported Platforms: A Practical Guide

While the ESR 115 extension is welcome news, it’s essential to plan for a future transition to a supported operating system. Here’s a breakdown of steps to consider:

1. Assess Compatibility: Determine which applications are critical to your workflow and verify their compatibility with newer operating systems (Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS Sonoma, etc.).
2. Data backup: Back up all critically important data before initiating any operating system upgrade.
3. Upgrade Planning: Develop a detailed upgrade plan, including timelines, resource allocation, and potential downtime.
4. Testing: Thoroughly test the upgraded system with your critical applications to ensure everything functions correctly.
5. Deployment: Deploy the upgrade in a phased approach, starting with a small group of users before rolling it out to the entire association.

Resources for Further Facts

Mozilla Support: [https://support.mozilla.org/nl/kb/firefox-downloaden-en-installeren-windows](https://support.mozilla.org/nl/kb/firefox-downloaden-en