One of the only disadvantages of using Firefox is the start-up time. It often takes 5-10 seconds to start-up your first browser window, depending on how many extensions you have. Internet Explorer on the other hand, is integrated into Windows, and thus takes 1-2 seconds to start. So how do you combat this? There are a couple different techniques, such as compressing and decompressing your installation, but the simplest is using a preloader.

If you are growing tired of the long Firefox start up time (personally I just leave it on.) Firefox Preloader is an open source application that will load parts FF into your RAM at system start-up, so it will load quickly when you call on it. As long as you start your browser at least once per reboot, this little software will prove useful to you.

I decided to try it out myself, and it seems to have a noticeable difference. Even more of a difference if you are running an older machine. You may want to install a copy on your parent’s computers as well. Assuming they’re already using Firefox.

Sourceforge Project page

Download link