Installing Chrome extensions: expand your browser

Google Chrome is one of the most popular web browsers in the world, and a large part of that popularity comes from the ability to install extensions. Extensions are small programs that add extra features to your browser. Think of an ad blocker, a password manager or a tool for taking screenshots. In this article we explain step by step how to install and manage Chrome extensions.

What are Chrome extensions?

Chrome extensions are small software programs that expand the functionality of your Google Chrome browser. They are developed by Google itself or by third-party developers and are available in the Chrome Web Store. With extensions you can personalize your browsing experience and work more efficiently.

Extensions can perform a wide range of tasks. Some block ads, others help translate web pages, and still others make it easier to save articles for later. The nice thing is that you choose which extensions you want to use, so your browser does exactly what you need.

How do you install a Chrome extension?

Step 1: Open the Chrome Web Store

The first step is to open the Chrome Web Store. You do this by typing the following address into Chrome's address bar: chrome.google.com/webstore. You can also simply search for "Chrome Web Store" on Google.

The Chrome Web Store is the official marketplace for Chrome extensions. Here you will find thousands of extensions, both free and paid. Google checks all extensions for safety before they are placed in the store, which greatly reduces the risk of malware.

Step 2: Search for an extension

In the Chrome Web Store you can search for extensions in several ways. At the top left you will find a search bar where you can enter the name of a specific extension. You can also browse the categories, such as Productivity, Social & Communication, or Accessibility.

Take the time to read an extension's description carefully. Also pay attention to the number of users and the ratings. An extension with many positive ratings is generally more reliable than an extension with few or negative reviews.

Step 3: Install the extension

Found an extension you want to install? Then click the blue "Add to Chrome" button. A pop-up window appears that lists the permissions the extension needs. Read this carefully. If you agree, click "Add extension".

The extension is now downloaded and installed. This usually takes only a few seconds. After installation, the extension's icon appears at the top right of your browser, next to the address bar.

Managing Chrome extensions

Viewing and adjusting extensions

To view all your installed extensions, click the three dots at the top right of Chrome and go to More tools and then Extensions. You can also type chrome://extensions into the address bar.

On this page you see an overview of all installed extensions. For each extension you can:

  • Turn the extension on or off with the toggle
  • Click Details for more information and settings
  • Remove the extension by clicking Remove

Pinning extensions to the toolbar

Not all extensions automatically appear in your toolbar. Chrome groups extensions under a puzzle piece icon. To make an extension permanently visible, click the puzzle piece and then the pin icon next to the extension you want. The extension now always stays visible in your toolbar.

Managing permissions

Some extensions ask for access to certain websites or data. You can manage these permissions per extension. Go to chrome://extensions, click Details for the extension in question and scroll to Site access. Here you can set whether the extension has access to all sites, specific sites, or only when you click it.

Productivity

For productivity there are extensions such as Todoist, which lets you manage to-do lists, or Grammarly, which checks your spelling and grammar as you type. Momentum is also handy: it turns your new tab into an inspiring dashboard with tasks and weather info.

Privacy and security

In the area of privacy, extensions such as uBlock Origin are popular for blocking ads. HTTPS Everywhere makes sure websites always use the secure HTTPS connection. LastPass or Bitwarden help you store and fill in passwords securely.

Entertainment and social media

For entertainment there are extensions such as Enhancer for YouTube, which adds extra features to YouTube. Social Blade shows statistics for YouTube channels and other social media profiles. Dark Reader makes websites dark, which is easier on your eyes in the evening.

Tips for using extensions safely

Install only what you need

The more extensions you install, the slower your browser can become. In addition, every extension potentially increases the risk of privacy or security problems. So only install extensions you actually use, and regularly remove extensions you no longer need.

Check the source

Only install extensions from the official Chrome Web Store. Extensions from unknown sources may contain malicious software. Also look at who developed the extension. Well-known companies or developers with many positive reviews are generally more reliable.

Keep extensions up to date

Chrome usually updates extensions automatically, but it is a good idea to check this now and then. Go to chrome://extensions and click Developer mode at the top right. You will now see an Update button that lets you update all extensions manually.

Watch the permissions

Be critical of the permissions an extension asks for. A simple clock extension, for example, does not need access to all your browser data. If the requested permissions do not make sense for what the extension does, choose an alternative.

Troubleshooting extensions

An extension is not working properly

If an extension is not working properly, first try restarting Chrome. Still not working? Turn the extension off and on again via chrome://extensions. You can also try removing the extension and installing it again.

The browser has become slow

If your browser has become slow after installing extensions, check which extensions use a lot of resources. Go to the three dots, click More tools and then Task manager. Here you can see how much memory each extension uses. Consider turning off or removing extensions that use a lot of memory.

Conflicts between extensions

Sometimes extensions do not work well together. If you run into problems, try turning off extensions one at a time to find out which one is causing the problem. You can then choose which extension you want to keep.

Frequently asked questions

Are Chrome extensions free?

Most Chrome extensions are free to use. Some extensions offer a free basic version with the option to upgrade to a paid premium version with extra features. The price is always clearly shown in the Chrome Web Store before you install the extension.

Can I use Chrome extensions on my phone too?

No, Chrome extensions only work in the desktop version of Google Chrome on Windows, Mac and Linux. The mobile version of Chrome for Android and iOS does not support extensions. Some extensions do offer separate mobile apps with similar functionality.

How do I know if an extension is safe?

Look at the number of users and the ratings in the Chrome Web Store. Extensions with many positive reviews from thousands of users are generally safe. Also read the description and the privacy policy. Be careful with extensions that give little information or ask for unreasonable permissions.

Can I turn off extensions temporarily?

Yes, you can turn off extensions temporarily without removing them. Go to chrome://extensions and switch the toggle for the extension in question to off. The extension stays installed but is not active. You can turn the extension back on at any time by switching the toggle on again.

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