Mozilla has announced an extension for the support of Firefox ESR 115 on Windows 7, now lasting until March 2026. Initially set to conclude in September 2024, and earlier extended to 2025, this change offers users more time to transition to newer operating systems while ensuring continued access to critical security updates.
Transition and Security
The Extended Support Release (ESR) channel is aimed at offering stability and security without the frequent feature changes seen in regular releases. While ESR users benefit from vital security patches, new features typically require upgrades to both the browser and the operating system. Encouraging users to eventually upgrade to supported systems, Mozilla emphasizes that this extension aims to ease the transition for users while maintaining necessary security.
Mozilla's decision reflects an understanding of the challenges involved in moving away from older operating systems like Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, particularly for those in corporate or organizational environments where change can be slow. With this extension, the organization aims to provide ample time for planned transitions.
Changes for Linux Users
In a separate announcement, Mozilla has declared that Firefox 145 will no longer support 32-bit Linux platforms. This decision highlights the decreasing support for 32-bit Linux among major distributions, making it challenging for Mozilla to maintain Firefox on these systems. Users needing 32-bit support will have to switch to Firefox ESR 140, which is set to receive support at least until September 2026.
The evolution away from 32-bit systems signals a broader trend within the industry, as many software providers increasingly focus on 64-bit architectures to leverage enhanced performance and stability. Mozilla’s decision aligns with this trajectory, though it acknowledges the difficulty posed to users who still rely on older hardware.
Ultimately, by extending support in some areas while trimming it in others, Mozilla aims to balance the need for forward movement in technology with the need to support users with varying capabilities and circumstances. The careful considerations surrounding the continued support reflect Mozilla’s commitment to both security and customer needs.
