Firefox, a popular open-source web browser, is known for its flexibility and customizability. One of its features includes the ability to open external links in new windows or tabs. However, when it comes to PDF links, Firefox behaves differently from other links. By default, Firefox opens PDF links in a new Firefox window using the default profile. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this behavior and how to change it if needed.
Why Firefox Opens PDF Links in a New Window Using Default Profile
Firefox associates PDF files with its built-in PDF viewer, which is Mozilla's own PDF.js. When you click on a PDF link, Firefox launches a new instance of the browser to open the PDF file using the default profile. This behavior is different from other types of links, such as HTML or text links, which can be opened in the same tab or a new tab depending on your settings.
Change Firefox Behavior for PDF Links
If you prefer to open PDF links in the same tab or a new tab instead of a new Firefox window, you can change your settings. Here's how:
- Type "about:config" in the Firefox address bar and press Enter. A warning message will appear. Click "I accept the risk!" to continue.
- In the search bar, type "pdfjs.disabled" and press Enter. The preference will be highlighted.
- Double-click on "pdfjs.disabled" to toggle the value. A value of "false" means that Firefox will use the built-in PDF viewer, and a value of "true" means that Firefox will use an external PDF reader, such as Adobe Acrobat, to open PDF links.
- Close and reopen Firefox to apply the changes.
Firefox opens PDF links in a new Firefox window using the default profile by default. This behavior is due to Firefox associating PDF files with its built-in PDF viewer. If you prefer to open PDF links in the same tab or a new tab instead, you can change your settings by toggling the "pdfjs.disabled" preference in the Firefox about:config page.