Waterfox Web Browser

Waterfox is a free and open-source web browser based on Mozilla Firefox, optimized for speed, privacy, and user freedom. Created in 2011 by Alex Kontos (then a 16-year-old student in Scotland) as a 64-bit build of Firefox for Windows, Waterfox has evolved into a privacy-focused browser that removes telemetry and respects user choice. The project is now maintained by BrowserWorks Ltd. Key features: privacy-focused: unlike mainstream browsers, this browser removes telemetry, data collection, and sponsored content. No tracking of usage patterns or sending crash reports by default. Extension support: supports both classic Firefox extensions (XUL/XPCOM via the legacy extension system) and modern WebExtensions. This enables using extensions that were abandoned when Firefox switched to WebExtensions-only in 2017. NPAPI plugin support: retains support for legacy plugins like Java and Silverlight that were removed from Firefox. Customization: extensive about:config options for fine-tuning browser behavior. Chromium-style settings page alongside the traditional Firefox preferences. Compatible with most Firefox themes and personas. Tracking protection: built-in Enhanced Tracking Protection blocking third-party trackers, social media trackers, and cryptocurrency miners. No sponsored tiles on the new tab page. Multi-platform: Windows, macOS, and Linux. Regular updates tracking the Firefox ESR (Extended Support Release) codebase for stability while incorporating security patches. Based on Gecko engine. C++/JavaScript/Rust. MPL-2.0.