Plugins downloaded for use with Firefox will no longer be activated by default in order to reduce crashes, security problems and hang-ups in the browser.
On Tuesday, Benjamin Smedberg, Engineering Manager, Stability and Plugins at Firefox
wrote on Mozilla'a blog that the change is designed to give users a "better Firefox experience." Now, when a site attempts to enable a plugin, users will have to choose whether to activate the third party system or not. The engineer writes:
"Even though many users are not even aware of plugins, they are a significant source of hangs, crashes, and security incidents. By allowing users to decide which sites need to use plugins, Firefox will help protect them and keep their browser running smoothly."
The only plugin Mozilla Firefox's new system will not effect is Flash, which will remain enabled by default.