But a few applauded the decision.

"Good riddance, and thank you, Google," said a user identified as "Dekoth" in the blog's comments. "Now perhaps people will get to see just how powerful Firefox and Chrome both are without needless baggage."

One commenter wondered if the move was motivated by Google's desire to push users toward its own Chrome browser.

"This step move[s] Firefox users to Chrome, since many [are] still using Firefox due to Google Toolbar," argued on Wednesday.

On a where Google spelled out steps users can take in lieu of the Toolbar, the company did plug Chrome. "Find out how to get the best of Google Toolbar in Google Chrome," the pitch read.