I am running osx version 10.6.8 with safari 5.0.5. recently i ran one of those recommended upgrades and now Safari continually quits citing .WinASOEasyTweakVKey.Gen.tmp plug-in. how in the world do i combat this issue? thank you!

You’ve been infected with the “Flashback” malware. See this Apple support document:

About Flashback malware

Back up all data, if you haven't already done so.

From the menu bar, select

 ▹ Software Update

to install the latest Java update, as well as any other available updates. That should clear the infection in most cases. You must update to the latest version of OS X 10.6 or 10.7 before you can install the Java update.

The removal tool runs automatically in the background and is then deleted. Don’t look for something to click. If the malware is removed, you’ll be notified.

After you’ve secured your system — not before — change every Internet password you have, starting with banking passwords, and check all financial accounts for unauthorized transactions.

I don't know much about Firefox, but I suspect you're using some add-on or plugin that only works in 32-bit mode. I suggest you go to the Firefox user forums for help with that issue.

macleese wrote:

i did the software update (even updated my keyboard -- very exciting) and the system told me that Malware was found and removed.

That malware has almost certainly been on your computer for almost a year now as the installation server has not been active for probably nine months. So here's your take away...

Keep your OS, Apple apps, FlashPlayer and Java fully up-to-date to avoid any future infections and disable Java (not JavaScript) in all your browsers. Allow Software Update to check as often as possible and don't wait too long to install what it says you need, especially if it's a Security or Java update. It's a lot easier than cleaning up after.