There's a new browser in town: Firefox is quickly becoming a leading alternative to Microsoft Internet Explorer. If you are new to Firefox and want to see what all the buzz is about, Firefox and Thunderbird: Beyond Browsing and Email is the guide that you need. By focusing on how to configure and customize Firefox and Thunderbird, this book will show you how to quickly get a hold of the less intuitive features that most new users struggle to figure out. You will discover which of Firefox's many options should be adjusted, which shouldn't, and how to locate many hidden preferences that will ultimately create a better browsing experience. The author's tips and tricks will teach you how to adjust the browser's appearance and behavior, and how to install the most popular extensions to maximize the browser's performance.

You'll also be introduced to Firefox's e-mail client companion, Thunderbird. You'll cover Thunderbird's built-in spam filters, calendar, and customizeable layout and toolbars. Personalize your e-mail with tips and tricks dedicated to getting the most out of Thunderbird, and learn how to make it work together with Firefox for a seamless online experience.

You can even find out how to contribute to the development of Firefox and Thunderbird. A special section on Web development will show you how you can add new extensions, themes, and customizations to each one and make an impact on the future of Firefox and Thunderbird.

About author

Peter D. Hipson is a teacher, author, consultant, and developer who lives and works in New Hampshire. He holds a MEng in industrial engineering and management from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Bangkok.

Peter became involved in computers in the early 1970s, when he performed work at the hardware level on mainframe computers used for inventory and management. His subsequent work with mainframes continued until the mid-1980s.

His work with microcomputers dates back to their inception in the early to mid-1970s. Achievements in the early microcomputer field include patents for development of microcomputer technology dealing with secure software techniques and advanced work in data encryption. Other work included the development of interfaces for early microcomputers allowing the then-simple computers to work with a number of devices.