Firefox Extensions

One of the nice feature of Firefox Web browser is the ability to add new features via extensions.

Extensions are small add-ons that add new functionality to Firefox, from a simple toolbar button to a completely new feature. They allow you to customize Firefox to fit your own needs and preferences.

Note that extensions shouldn’t be confused with plugins, which perform a specific function like playing multi-media files etc. Acrobat Reader, Flash Player etc are some examples of plugins.

There are thousands of extensions available via Firefox. Even though the extensions are categorized, the sheer number makes it very difficult the find good, useful extensions.

However with the release of Firefox 2.0 filtering based on the rating has been removed. Using the advanced option, the best you can do, is filter based on platform and date.

So how to find useful, high quality Firefox extensions ?

Firefox has compiled a list of 25 recommended Add-ons. You can check it over here. Out of the 25 only the LinkedIn Extension is the one which is kind of “out of place”. I had tried the extension before and I didn’t see much value add in the add-on.

EConsultant has complied a list of 200+ Firefox extensions. The categorization of extensions is similar to that of Firefox, however only the top rated extensions have been picked and listed.

Check the list here.

I personally use these Firefox Extensions:

1. Google Browser Sync – Helps me to synch browsing history between my work PC and home PC
2. Del.icio.us – Easily tag and add bookmarks
3. FlashGot – Must have extension, can delegate all the “Download” links to your favorite download manager. The download manager I recommend is FDM (Free Download Manager)
4. GreaseMonkey – Helps me to run some pretty useful GreaseMonkey scripts. More on GreaseMonkey here !
5. McAfee SiteAdvisor – I wrote about this extension here. A very very useful plugin that tags along with the search results and protects you from visiting sites that spread malicious viruses or spyware.

   

6. StumbleUpon – Helps you to discover and share new web content.
7. CoolIris Previews – More info here !

I am sure many of you guys use Firefox and will have your own list of favorite extensions, put it down in the comments and mention why you use the extension 🙂