Table of contents
- What is uBlock Origin and who developed it
- Chrome extensions and uBlock Origin Lite
- uBlock Origin for Mozilla Firefox
- How to install uBlock Origin
- uBlock Origin and the evolution of Manifest
- Why use uBlock Origin today
In a world where online advertising has become ubiquitous, uBlock Origin has established itself as one of the most reliable and lightweight solutions for blocking ads, trackers, and unwanted content.
It is an open-source browser extension that goes far beyond simple ad blocking, offering advanced tools for power users and a minimal impact on system resources.
In this article, we’ll explore what uBlock Origin is, who developed it, what its main versions are (including uBlock Origin Lite), how to install it on browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Chrome, and what changes with the introduction of Manifest V3 compared to the previous Manifest V2. We’ll also provide practical examples and technical insights.
What is uBlock Origin and who developed it
uBlock Origin is a free content blocker developed by Raymond Hill (also known as “gorhill”), first released in 2014 as a fork of a previous project called HTTP Switchboard. Unlike many similar tools, uBlock Origin doesn’t just block ads; it allows granular control over the content of web pages, from tracking cookies to suspicious domains.
The project stands out for the ethical and transparent approach of its developer, who has always refused sponsorships and commercial compromises, keeping the extension completely open source and free from “acceptable ads.” This has earned uBlock Origin a solid reputation among users, developers, and privacy advocates.
Chrome extensions and uBlock Origin Lite
Those using Google Chrome can download uBlock Origin directly from the Chrome Web Store. However, due to limitations introduced by Google’s new Manifest V3 (MV3) standard, the full version of uBlock Origin is no longer available for all versions of the browser. To address this, Raymond Hill created a simplified version called uBlock Origin Lite.
uBlock Origin Lite is compatible with Manifest V3 and retains some core functionality, while omitting advanced dynamic filtering capabilities. It’s still useful for those looking for a lightweight solution that complies with Google’s new security and performance standards.
However, it’s important to clarify that uBlock Origin Lite is not a full replacement for the original version: it’s better suited for basic use and does not support advanced custom rules or third-party scripts.
uBlock Origin for Mozilla Firefox
The most complete and powerful version of uBlock Origin is the one for Mozilla Firefox, which still supports Manifest V2, allowing the extension full access to its original capabilities.
On Firefox, uBlock Origin acts like a true browser firewall, enabling users to:
- Block specific URLs or dynamic patterns.
- Manage custom filter lists.
- View real-time stats of blocked requests.
- Enable or disable Javascript, media, or iframes on a per-site basis.
Thanks to this level of control, many advanced users prefer it over alternatives like AdBlock Plus or Ghostery, especially for its efficiency and low system resource usage.
How to install uBlock Origin
Installing uBlock Origin varies slightly depending on the browser. Here are the main steps for the two most popular browsers:
On Chrome (or Chromium-based browsers)
- Go to the Chrome Web Store.
- Search for “uBlock Origin” (watch out for fake clones—make sure the author is Raymond Hill).
- Click “Add to Chrome”.
- Confirm the installation.
On Mozilla Firefox
- Go to addons.mozilla.org.
- Search for uBlock Origin.
- Click “Add to Firefox”.
- Accept the requested permissions.
Once installed, the uBlock icon will appear next to the address bar. Clicking it opens the dashboard, where you can view blocked elements, enable/disable the extension for specific sites, or customize active filters.
uBlock Origin and the evolution of Manifest
Google’s introduction of Manifest V3, the new standard for Chrome extensions, has raised many concerns among developers and users. This is because MV3 significantly limits the ability of extensions to intercept and modify network requests, compromising the functionality of blocking extensions like uBlock Origin.
While Manifest V2 allowed more direct and powerful control over HTTP requests, MV3 introduces a new system (called declarativeNetRequest) which simplifies but also limits the dynamic filtering capabilities of extensions.
For this reason, Raymond Hill has stated that the full version of uBlock Origin will not be compatible with MV3, and that the original version will remain fully supported only on browsers like Firefox and Brave, which continue to support V2.
Why use uBlock Origin today
If you’re looking for effective ad blocking, improved privacy, and lower resource usage compared to other tools, uBlock Origin is one of the best browser extensions available.
Unlike many solutions that consume memory, show sponsored ads, or require subscriptions, uBlock Origin is completely free, does not collect personal data, and can be customized to suit the user’s needs. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants to browse more safely, faster, and ad-free, without compromises.
Conclusion
In a landscape dominated by intrusive advertising, hidden trackers, and digital threats, uBlock Origin stands out as an essential tool for anyone wanting to take control of their browsing experience.
Whether you choose the full version for Mozilla Firefox or uBlock Origin Lite for Chrome, it’s worth remembering that the fight for a more transparent and respectful web also depends on tools like this one.
Questions and answers
- Is it free?
Yes, it is completely free and open source. - Who developed it?
Developer Raymond Hill, also known as gorhill. - Is it available on Chrome?
Yes, though due to Manifest V3, it’s also available as uBlock Origin Lite. - What’s the difference between uBlock Origin and uBlock Origin Lite?
Lite has fewer features due to Manifest V3 restrictions. - Does it work on Firefox?
Yes, with full original features thanks to Manifest V2 support. - Is it better than AdBlock Plus?
Many users prefer it for its efficiency, lightweight performance, and absence of “acceptable ads.” - Can I add custom filters?
Yes, you can import or create personalized lists. - Does it block trackers too?
Yes, it blocks ads, tracking scripts, and harmful content. - How can I temporarily disable it?
Click on the extension icon and toggle it off for the current site. - Does it collect data?
No, it doesn’t collect or share personal data.
