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How to add or remove a Google Chrome extension
Over the years, Google Chrome has branched out to become one of the most popular browsers in the world, and it only gets better when you take advantage of its numerous extensions. The Chrome Web Store has a considerable extension library, so there’s bound to be something to suit your needs. Here’s how to add or remove a Google Chrome extension in the desktop version of the browser.
QUICK ANSWER
Within Chrome, click the puzzle piece icon in the top-right corner to display your extensions list. To remove an extension, click the triple-dot icon beside it > Remove from Chrome. You can find new extensions in the Chrome Web Store.
KEY SECTIONS
How to add a Chrome extension
The home for most Chrome extensions is Google’s own Chrome Web Store. Search for specific extensions, or select a category in the left-hand sidebar to browse. If this is your first time adding an extension, we recommend exploring the Extensions Starter Kit, which includes staples like Zoom and Google Translate.
- Click on an extension that catches your eye to learn more about it, including its privacy practices and user reviews. Then, click Add to Chrome to install.
- Confirm by choosing Add extension.
- You’ll see a notification when the extension is ready to use. To trigger if it’s not automatic, click its icon in the toolbar or find it using the extension puzzle piece icon — more on this in the next section.
How to remove, enable or disable a Chrome extension
- To fast remove an extension, click on the three-dot button beside it and select Remove from Chrome.
- You can also open or manage your extensions by clicking the puzzle piece icon near your Google Accounts profile picture in the top-right corner.
- From the pop-out menu, click Manage Extensions. This will open a new tab.
- To remove a Google Chrome extension, select Remove. You can also simply toggle extensions on and off, say if a deals add-on like Honey is being overly aggressive but you plan on using it later for something like smart home shopping.
Pin Chrome extensions
To access specific extensions faster, you can pin them to your toolbar. This will create a small icon for the extension in the top-right corner. Click the puzzle piece icon to open your list of extensions, and then click the pin icons beside the ones you want.
To unpin an extension, just click the pin icon again.
FAQs
Extensions are considered trusted when built by a developer who follows the Chrome Web Store Developer Program Policies. Some extensions may request different permissions, however, and Google will provide an alert according to their potential risk level.
You can always perform a Safety Check from Chrome’s settings.
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Unfortunately, extensions only apply to the desktop version of Chrome. Some extensions may have standalone mobile apps.
Most are free, but some may have an optional paid version, and others may require a subscription to get the most out of them.
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