The latest updates in major browsers bring a plethora of new features to enhance user experiences. However, one notable change could potentially impact browsing, specifically the disabling of NPAPI plugins. This affects websites developed in Java, Silverlight, and ShockWave, leading to disruptions in their functionalities.
Understanding the NPAPI Plugins
These plugins are extensively utilized in online gaming websites, enabling users to access essential functionalities without the need for downloads. While the decision to disable them primarily aims to bolster user security due to identified vulnerabilities, it has been met with mixed reception. It’s worth noting that these plugins often contributed to unnecessary resource loads, causing browser performance slowdowns.
Re-enabling NPAPI Plugins
Despite the shift, there are scenarios where NPAPI plugins remain essential. We’ll guide you through the steps to re-enable them in various browsers:
Steps to Activate NPAPI Type Plugins in the Browser
Enabling NPAPI plugins varies depending on your browser and its version. In recent updates, these plugins have been deprecated, necessitating some code manipulation to reactivate them.
In Google Chrome
Google Chrome was a pioneer in removing NPAPI support from its browser in 2015. For versions beyond Chrome 45, reactivating NPAPI requires more advanced tinkering with the source code. To regain NPAPI functionality, follow these steps:
- Ensure you have Google Chrome version 44 or lower.
- Access the experimental functions by entering
chrome://flagsin the navigation bar. - Locate the option “Enable NPAPI” and select “Enable”.
- Restart the browser to apply the changes.
In Mozilla Firefox
Firefox took a bit longer to phase out NPAPI support, making this change in early 2017. However, it’s still possible to utilize NPAPI plugins with an outdated version, specifically version 51 in ESR mode. Follow these steps:
- Navigate to the installation folder of Firefox.
- Locate the file
channel-prefs.jsin the path/Mozilla Firefox/defaults/prefs/. - Open it with any text editor and change the value
pref("app.update.channel", "release");topref("app.update.channel", "esr");. - Find the file
update-settings.iniin the same folder and change the valueACCEPTED_MAR_CHANNEL_IDS=firefox-mozilla-releasetoACCEPTED_MAR_CHANNEL_IDS=firefox-mozilla-release. - Open the browser, access settings, find the plugins section, and enable NPAPI.
Note that this workaround is only effective for Firefox version 51. For later versions, installing an older version (prior to Firefox 52) may be necessary.
In Internet Explorer (Edge)
Unfortunately, in EDGE, the Windows 10 explorer, NPAPI plugins are no longer available. They have been discontinued and are entirely blocked by current browsers. Fortunately, alternative programming technologies are emerging to facilitate multimedia content integration, ensuring a seamless transition.
In conclusion, while NPAPI plugins may face limitations in modern browsers, the ever-evolving landscape of web technologies offers promising alternatives for developers and users alike.
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