Ctrl+J will bring up the downloads, I don't know why they dismiss it now as soon as the download finishes.

Right click on the wanted download then on "Open containing folder"

derogatory comment deleted by a moderator - please read this https://support.mozilla.com/en-US/kb/Forum+and+chat+rules+and+guidelines

"I check the downloads folder and nothing is there"

That could be a message

• from your firewall/av/as program or a toolbar from one of those (check with that vendor) or
• because you have your Windows security settings too high (Windows: Start button > Settings > Control Panel > Internet Options, click on the Security tab, lower the setting with the slider). Be sure to reset to your original setting after the download is complete

You need to update the following. The Plugin version(s) shown below was/were submitted with your question and is/are out of date. You should update to avoid known security issues with the version(s) you have installed. Click on "More system info..." to the right of your question to see what was included with your question.

• Shockwave Flash 10.1 r52

1. Check your plugin versions on either of the following links':
   • http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/plugincheck/
   • https://www-trunk.stage.mozilla.com/en-US/plugincheck/
   • Note: plugin check page does not have information on all plugin versions
   • There are plugin specific testing links available from this page:
     • http://kb.mozillazine.org/Testing_plugins
2. Update the Flash plugin to the latest version.
   • Download and SAVE to your Desktop so you can find the installer later
   • If you do not have the current version, click on the "Player Download Center" link on the "Download and information" or "Download Manual installers" below
   • After download is complete, exit Firefox
   • Click on the installer you just downloaded and install
     • Windows 7 and Vista: may need to right-click the installer and choose "Run as Administrator"
   • Start Firefox and check your version again or test the installation by going back to the download link below
   • Download and information: http://www.adobe.com/software/flash/about/
     • Use Firefox to go to the above site to update the Firefox plugin (will also install plugin for most other browsers; except IE)
     • Use IE to go to the above site to update the IE ActiveX
   • Download Manual installers.
     • http://kb2.adobe.com/cps/191/tn_19166.html#main_ManualInstaller
     • Note separate links for:
       • Plugin for Firefox and most other browsers
       • ActiveX for IE

It was set to medium-high so I set it to medium and still nothing. Since I can't download anything, I can't update plugins... whoops.

What about your firewall/av/as application?

Firewall is off.

It is some setting on your system. On my XP system with Firefox 5, I have very tight firewall settings and have Windows security set at High and I can download .exe files. I thought there was a line item for .exe files in Internet Options > Security > Custom Level, but I can not find it.

All I know is that it used to work and now it doesn't. I haven't messed with any computer settings because it's a work computer, not a home computer.

Since it is a work computer, maybe someone in your IT department can look at your settings and troubleshoot the problem. Since it used to work and now does not, something has changed on your system. Look for any programs or Add-ons that have been added since the last time that you remember it working.

I have no further suggestions. Sorry that I could not help you find an answer.