Firefox freezes when downloading or accessing options unless run as administrator
Lately my Firefox has been acting weird. When I try to download or click on the "options" button or access about:preferences, the program hangs immediately. However, when I tried to run as an administrator, it works normally.
I have tried to refresh, reinstall, safe mode, and scan my computer for any suspicious activity. No crash report has been generated. My Firefox is also the latest version.
Can this be caused by a virus? Any help is welcome, thanks!
All Replies (2)
Sometimes a problem with Firefox may be a result of malware installed on your computer, that you may not be aware of.
You can try these free programs to scan for malware, which work with your existing antivirus software:
- Microsoft Safety Scanner
- MalwareBytes' Anti-Malware
- Anti-Rootkit Utility - TDSSKiller
- AdwCleaner (for more info, see this alternate AdwCleaner download page)
- Hitman Pro
- ESET Online Scanner
Microsoft Security Essentials is a good permanent antivirus for Windows 7/Vista/XP if you don't already have one. Windows 8 has antivirus built-in already.
Further information can be found in the Troubleshoot Firefox issues caused by malware article.
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Shut down Firefox. Using your file browser, open the Programs Folder on your computer.
Windows: C:\Program Files C:\Program Files (x86)
Right click on Firefox.exe and select Properties. Now select Compatibility. Turn Off Run This Program In Compatibility Mode, and Run This Program As An Administrator.
Do the same for any Firefox shortcuts you have. Now restart Firefox.