Our verdict: Waterfox is a calmer Firefox: the same engine and extensions, but no telemetry, an ad blocker switched on by default and more control over the interface. It follows Firefox's extended-support releases, so new web features arrive later than in regular Firefox.
About Waterfox
Waterfox was founded by Alex Kontos in 2011. After a period under System1 it returned to independent ownership in 2023 and is now developed by BrowserWorks Ltd. It uses Mozilla's Gecko engine and runs Firefox WebExtensions, while Chrome-only extensions do not work.
Browser telemetry is stripped out. Waterfox adds a built-in blocker for ads, trackers and pop-ups, encrypted DNS sent through an Oblivious HTTP relay, private tabs next to normal tabs, tree-style tabs and a classic status bar. It is funded through search partnerships, optional Waterfox Private Search subscriptions and donations.
What it does well
- Built-in ad blocker. Blocks ads, trackers, pop-ups and overlays by default, with editable filter lists.
- Private DNS. Encrypts DNS lookups and sends them through a relay that separates who asked from what was asked.
- Private tabs. Open a private tab in a normal window; its data is cleared when the last one closes.
- Tree tabs. Nests each page under the tab that opened it so research sessions stay organized.
- Firefox extensions. Supports Firefox WebExtensions and imports data from other browsers.
Who it is for
Good fit
Firefox users who want ad blocking and no telemetry out of the box, plus a more customizable interface.
Look elsewhere
People who need the newest web platform features as soon as Firefox ships them, or Chrome-only extensions.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ad blocker on by default
- No telemetry
- Tree tabs and status bar built in
- Open source
Cons
- Follows Firefox ESR, so new features arrive later
- Default search includes partner ads unless you change it
- Chrome-only extensions do not work
How to install Waterfox
Run the Windows installer from waterfox.com and import bookmarks and passwords from your old browser on first launch. Check the default search engine and the partner search ads setting in Settings if you prefer a different provider.
Questions about Waterfox
Is Waterfox free?
Yes. Waterfox is free and open source, with no premium tier required and no account needed to browse.
How is Waterfox different from Firefox?
It uses the same Gecko engine but removes telemetry and adds built-in ad blocking, private DNS and more interface options.
Does Waterfox get security updates?
Yes. Waterfox includes Mozilla's security fixes in its regular updates, following the Firefox ESR model.
