How to update an extension in Chrome

It is important to keep Chrome extensions updated for safety, speed, and new features. This guide will show you how to update extensions automatically and by hand. Old extensions can cause security problems and errors that affect your browsing.

Automatic updates

Chrome extensions are designed to update automatically soon after the developer releases a new version. Normally, this process is seamless and you do not need to intervene. However, automatic updates don't always occur immediately and can sometimes be delayed.

Manually updating extensions

To manually update extensions in Chrome, you first need to enable Developer Mode. Follow these steps:

Open the Extensions page by navigating to "More tools" and then "Extensions" from the Chrome menu.
Toggle the "Developer mode" switch in the upper right corner of the Extensions page.
Once Developer Mode is enabled, an "Update" button will appear. Click this button to manually update all extensions.

While Chrome usually updates extensions automatically, there may be instances where manual updates are necessary, especially for extensions that rely on third-party sources or are less frequently updated by their developers.

After updating, it's important to monitor the permissions and changes made by the extensions, as updates can sometimes adjust permissions or features that could impact user privacy or functionality. For detailed information on what changes have been made, check the extension's page in the Chrome Web Store.

Troubleshooting

Updating extensions in Chrome can sometimes encounter issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Restart Chrome: Often, simply restarting the browser can resolve update issues.
Check Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection, as updates require online access.
Reinstall the Extension: If an extension fails to update, try uninstalling and then reinstalling it.
Contact the Developer: For persistent issues, reach out to the extension developer for support.

Additionally, consider the following steps:

Clear Browser Cache: Clearing the browser cache can sometimes resolve update issues related to stored data.
Check for Browser Updates: Ensure that your Chrome browser is up to date, as an outdated version can hinder extension functionality.
Review Permissions and Settings: Look at extension-specific permissions and settings that could restrict updates, such as user policies or antivirus settings.

Conclusion

Updating Chrome extensions is simple and keeps your browser secure and fast. Extensions update automatically, but you can also check for updates manually.

Tips for managing Chrome extensions

Remove Unused Extensions: Delete what you don't need to improve browser speed and security.
Check Reviews: Look at user reviews and ratings before installing new extensions to ensure they are reliable.
Enable Update Notifications: Subscribe to notifications for updates on features and security patches when available.

Following these steps helps maintain a safe and efficient browsing experience.

Read after: Improving browsing experience with link previews