The New Firefox ‘Quantum’ Update

The new Firefox Quantum update is here!  I’m writing this post mainly with consignment and resale storeowners in mind.

The first thing you’ll likely notice is, the ‘tabs’ have changed.  They’re square-ish and by default, the tabs you’re not currently viewing are darker:

You’ll also probably notice the ‘bouncing dot’ page loading indicator:

Also, by default there’s a bit of blank space — a.k.a. Flexible Space:

The NoScript plugin (that little ‘allow’ icon) was not immediately available when Quantum launched, as it hadn’t been ported to a WebExtension.

In addition to the cosmetic changes, you should notice Firefox is much-faster and consumes less resources (less RAM/Memory, fewer CPU cycles, etc.)

Some of the post-update maintenance tasks Peeps perform on our clients systems:

• ‘Prune’ the toolbar — e.g. remove the Flexible space, position the uBlock Origin icon directly to the right of the Address Bar, etc.
• ‘Prune’ the default New Tab page — e.g. remove Snippets, Highlights, and Recommended By Pocket clutter.
• Disable Privacy & Security > Firefox Data Collection and Use user telemetry.

Firefox Quantum also now includes a Deceptive Content and Dangerous Software Protection security setting (on by default):

It’s a welcomed addition, especially for consignment & resale storeowners who search the web all day long for item information, brand information, etc.  While this alone isn’t as effective as NoScript + uBlock Origin @ blocking JavaScript, redirects, etc. it’s better than nothing — I just can’t say I’d rely on it solely.

In summary, there are both cosmetic as well as performance differences, which are the key items I wanted consignment & resale store owners to be aware of.  Even a slight cosmetic change can throw someone for a curve and we get that, so I’d rather stores know it was a change that came with a reason vs. “Is something wrong with my computer/Internet!?”  🙂