Introduction
Mozilla is a free software global community and non-profit organization. It was founded in 1998 as Netscape released Mozilla’s code publicly. It develops and promotes free and open-source software, including the Firefox web browser. It focuses on user privacy and an open Internet.
History & Milestones
Mozilla started as an open-source project by Netscape. It aimed to counter Microsoft’s browser dominance. The name “Mozilla” comes from Netscape’s original codename, blending “Mosaic” (an early browser) and “Godzilla.” Firefox 1.0 launched in 2004 to challenge Internet Explorer. In 2012, Mozilla shifted focus to Firefox OS (discontinued in 2015). The company had to cut workforce (25% layoffs) amid declining Firefox market share in 2020. Mozilla Rebranded with the “Reclaim the Internet” campaign in 2024.
Product & Services
| Product | Description | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Firefox | Privacy-centered web browser | Active |
| Mozilla VPN | Subscription-based virtual private network | Active |
| Firefox Monitor | Checks if emails appear in data breaches | Active |
| Firefox Relay | Mask real email with aliases | Active |
| Bugzilla | Open-source bug-tracking system | Active |
| MDN Web Docs | Developer documentation hub | Active |
| Firefox OS | Discontinued | |
| Firefox Send | Discontinued | |
| Persona | Discontinued |
Business Model & Strategy
Mozilla primarily funds its operations through search engine partnerships, mainly Google paying to be Firefox’s default. Additional revenue comes from Mozilla VPN subscriptions, Pocket premium features, and grants. However dependence on corporate deals has sparked debate about its nonprofit independence.
Market Presence & Financials
Mozilla made $600M in 2023, mostly from search deals. Firefox now has just 3% market share, a steep drop from 30% in 2010. Its strongest markets are North America and Europe. Though smaller, Mozilla still leads on privacy issues.
Leadership & Culture
Laura Chambers took charge as the CEO of Mozilla on 29th March 2025. Mitchell Baker stepped down as CEO in early February 2024 and returned to the role of Executive Chairman. He has been the CEO of the company since 2020. Mozilla champions ethical technology while maintaining its open-source ethos and remote-first culture. However, repeated layoffs in 2020 and 2024 have sparked questions about the organization’s financial management and long-term stability.
Controversies & Challenges
Mozilla has faced growing scrutiny over privacy concerns (Firefox Relay’s OneRep partnership) in 2024, labor disputes (NLRB discrimination settlement) in 2025, and controversial Terms of Use updates in 2025. Firefox struggles against its rivals like Chrome and Safari and its market share continues shrinking.
Future Outlook
Mozilla is finding new revenue sources. It needs to move beyond Google money. Privacy failures hurt trust so Mozilla is continuously working on it. Mozilla is moving towards better privacy tools and AI ethics. The “Reclaim the Internet” rebrand looks good. But actions matter more than words. Mozilla aims to deliver to stay relevant.