IBM Support

IBM AIX: Firefox web browser FAQ

Question & Answer


Question

1) I cannot connect to most sites with the AIX Firefox browser. Why?
2) How can I resolve AIX Firefox browser issues?
3) How can I install or update the AIX Firefox browser?
4) What are alternative browser options for AIX?

Answer

1) There is a permanent limitation in the Firefox versions built for AIX.

Firefox.base.rte 3.6.25.2 was the latest version built for AIX, and this version did not support TLS 1.2. Users might experience issues when they visit any website through HTTPS (HTTP-within-SSL/TLS) which uses Transport Layer Security (TLS) 1.2.

Failure examples:

  • Unsupported browser version
  • Certificate authentication errors
  • Broken or unsupported security protocol
  • Secure connection failed

2) There is no IBM case support for AIX Firefox. This  product was withdrawn from support in 2018. Cases opened for Firefox will be canceled.

3) AIX Firefox is not available for download.

This  product is no longer available for download from IBM Web Downloads. There is no plan to build a new version. New browser requests will not be considered through case requests.

4) There is no IBM AIX browser replacement.

** AIX Support cannot offer any official browser solutions. 

Some applications use a browser for installation, but might have command-line options.  We suggest that you consult with the product support team about alternative installation options. 

An IBM "Idea" (Formerly known as a 'Request For Enhancement') was opened in 2017, however development stated this would not be considered.

AIX customers interested in a new browser for AIX are encouraged to visit the Idea site. They can vote, and add their business case, or other concerns in the "Comments" field.

Additional recommendations:

A) There are some simple Java browser projects on the internet.
For example:,
B) Customers can port their own Open Source browser.
For example,
C) Customers can visit the AIX Toolbox for Open Source Software forum to discuss future tool additions.
Useful Tip
For IBM customers who need to download fixes and cannot access Fix Central with their AIX browser,  the following two options are available:

A) AIX Service Update Management Assistant (SUMA)                                           

You can use SUMA to obtain Maintenance Levels, Tech Levels, and Service Packs.
https://www.ibm.com/docs/en/aix/7.2?topic=updates-using-software-service-management-menu-including-suma


B) IBM Entitled Systems Support (ESS) Orders

You can use the ESS site to order update images.
https://www.ibm.com/servers/eserver/ess/OpenServlet.wss

*On the ESS site, there are 2 delivery options:
1) Download now: Place the upgrade order and instantly download the newly ordered software products.
2) Download later: Place the upgrade order and download the software products later.
 
 
SUPPORT

If you require more assistance, use the following step-by-step instructions to contact IBM to open a case for software with an active and valid support contract.  

1. Document (or collect screen captures of) all symptoms, errors, and messages related to your issue.

2. Capture any logs or data relevant to the situation.

3. Contact IBM to open a case:

   -For electronic support, see the IBM Support Community:
     https://www.ibm.com/mysupport
   -If you require telephone support, see the web page:
      https://www.ibm.com/planetwide/

4. Provide a clear, concise description of the issue.

 - For more information, see: Working with IBM AIX Support: Describing the problem.

5. If the system is accessible, collect a system snap, and upload all of the details and data for your case.

 - For more information, see: Working with IBM AIX Support: Collecting snap data

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Document Information

Modified date:
28 March 2023

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isg3T1025747

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