Firefox about to get multi-process capability, will slightly drive up RAM utilization

Posted on Monday, February 15 2016 @ 12:33 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck

Mozilla first talked about its Electrolysis project around mid-2009 and late last year the browser maker revealed the first beta versions of its new multi-process browser architecture. By splitting the browser into multiple processes, like Chrome has done since its inception in 2008, Mozilla promises it will make Firefox safer and more stable. The only downside seems to be that the browser will use about 20 percent more RAM.

Over the years, Mozilla has made great inroads in taming Firefox's appetite for memory through initiatives such as MemShrink, which slashed memory utilization by as much as 50 percent. While the enablement of multi-process browsing in Firefox may negatively impact memory utilization, it may end up being a case of short term pain for long term gain while Electrolysis matures.

The first stable Firefox release with multi-process capability is expected to be Firefox 46, which is slated for release on April 19, 2016.

Via: Neowin

About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.

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