You should updated to Firefox 28, Firefox updates don't take any new space they just replace the existing files.

There are some things you can do to clean up your hard drive to free up space however, http://arstechnica.com/civis/viewtopic.php?p=21178060 and http://support.microsoft.com/kb/956324, also uninstall programs you don't use anymore and delete files you don't need anymore.

You should also start saving up for a new machine, Windows XP is being dropped from support by Microsoft in a few days, which means it will no longer be safe to use on the internet.

How much physical memory do you have installed on your computer?

You can check what programs are started automatically when you boot the computer and see if you can disable some of them. Possible candidates are programs that scan for updates like Java and Flash and Shockwave for Director.

Really? MSoft is dropping XP? Can you elaborate on what you mean when you say it won't be safe on the internet? I don't have $$ for a new computer.

Microsoft is End of Lifeing XP on April 8th. http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/enterprise/end-of-support.aspx

This means that there will no longer be security or stability updates for Windows XP, and that newly discovered holes and vulnerabilities will not be fixed. After April 8th, hackers and attackers will freely be able to attack and gain control of your system, your data, and your personal information, as the holes they use to attack your machine won't be plugged anymore as they are found.

You should begin saving for a new computer, or consider switching to an alternative OS such as Linux (which is free but may be hard to start using at first).

You can do some things to mitigate your risk, and one of the most important things is to make sure you update Firefox, Windows, and all other programs as much as possible, run a good anti-virus and regularly scan for malware.

To do this however youll need more hard drive space, so you should consider trying to save space by uninstalling stuff you don't use and running the cleanup tools I suggested above. Or find a reputable local repair shop to do it for you.

Also make sure to check if your anti-virus software will still be supporting Windows XP after April with security update and if not then search for other AV software that will receive updates.

I certainly appreciate your telling me all this. I had no idea it was even coming. It's the only computer I have. It has 10 years of my kids' photos on it, from baby 'til now, and I would hate to lose any of that. I'm sure not going to have enough $$ by next week. Might have to buy on credit.

One more question... If I am facing a purchase of a new one, would a Dell windows user have a hard time switching to Apple? Any advantage or disadvantage as you see it? I really appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge. There are people out here like me who really need the help.

We are getting off the topic of Firefox here, so I'll keep this brief.

Switching to an Apple computer isn't going to be the easy road. None of your applications will work, and you will be learning an entirely new system. Switching to Windows 8.1 (which any new dell will have) is also going to be a learning curve, but at least your applications will mostly work. You can also get the store that you buy it at to help you learn how to use it or find a local resources (libraries are often good for this) to teach you how to use it.

An Apple computer is also going to run to 2-3 times what an equivalent windows machine will, so for running a budget it isn't going to be your best option.

If you do decide to get a new computer let us know and we can help you transfer your Firefox bookmarks, history and other data to your new computer.