Use Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults to restore key browser configurations.
Chrome’s built-in reset does not delete saved bookmarks or passwords, although extensions and other settings are affected.
Android users can use Safety Check, while desktop users should review extensions, permissions, updates and unwanted software
Google Chrome can sometimes start behaving differently after installing an extension, changing a browser setting or visiting a problematic website. Users may notice an unfamiliar homepage, a different search engine, unwanted pop-ups, redirects or slower performance.
Resetting Chrome settings can help restore the browser’s main configuration to its original defaults. It is a troubleshooting step, not the same as uninstalling and reinstalling Chrome.
A Chrome reset can be useful when browser settings change without your knowledge. Common signs include an unfamiliar homepage or startup page, an unexpected search engine, excessive pop-ups, unwanted redirects or suspicious extensions.
It can also help when Chrome develops other unexpected behaviour after software or extensions modify its settings. However, a reset should not be treated as a malware-removal tool. If unwanted behaviour continues, users should also check their device and installed software.
Chrome restores several important browser settings to their defaults. These include the default search engine, homepage and startup pages, New Tab page, pinned tabs, content settings, cookies and site data, extensions and themes.
The reset does not delete saved bookmarks or saved passwords. It also does not remove browsing history. Some settings, including certain font and accessibility preferences, are not completely reset.
Because extensions and themes are affected, users may need to review them afterwards and manually re-enable or configure extensions they trust. Site permissions, such as access to notifications, the microphone or pop-ups, should also be checked after the reset.
The reset option is available in Google Chrome on Windows, Mac and Linux.
Open Google Chrome on your computer.
Click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner.
Select Settings.
In the Settings menu, select Reset settings.
Click Restore settings to their original defaults.
Review the information shown in the confirmation window.
Select Reset settings to complete the process.
Chrome will then restore the relevant settings. You may need to restart the browser or adjust some preferences again.
Chrome on Android does not provide the same desktop-style Restore settings to their original defaults option. Instead, users can troubleshoot individual problems through Chrome’s settings.
For website loading or formatting problems, open Chrome, tap the three-dot menu and select Delete browsing data. Choose the types of data you want to remove and tap Delete data. Users can select specific categories rather than deleting everything.
For security-related concerns, open Chrome > Settings > Safety check. Chrome can identify issues involving compromised passwords, unsafe browsing settings and potentially unwanted notifications or permissions.
If Chrome is slow, Google also recommends updating Chrome, closing inactive tabs and reviewing performance settings.
Also Read: How to Keep Google Chrome Secure
Yes. Chrome’s built-in settings reset does not delete saved bookmarks or passwords. Browsing history is also retained.
Still, if important information is involved, it is sensible to confirm that Chrome Sync is working and that important data is available before troubleshooting.
Do not confuse Reset settings with Delete browsing data. The latter can remove history, cookies, cached files, saved passwords and other selected data, depending on what the user chooses.
If the issue continues, review installed extensions and remove any that you do not recognise or trust. Check website notifications and other permissions, update Chrome and run the browser’s Safety Check.
Also inspect recently installed software on the computer if Chrome settings keep changing. Google notes that unwanted programs can modify Chrome settings.
If Chrome is damaged or its Settings menu cannot be opened, then you should uninstall and reinstall the browser. That is a separate troubleshooting step from resetting Chrome settings.
Resetting Chrome settings is a straightforward way to address unwanted browser configuration changes without deleting saved passwords or bookmarks. Start with the built-in reset on a computer, while Android users should use targeted troubleshooting tools such as Delete browsing data and Safety Check. If problems persist, review extensions, permissions, updates, and potentially unwanted software.
Also Read: Chrome 154 Security Update: 108 Vulnerabilities Fixed and Why You Should Update
No. Chrome’s built-in settings reset does not delete saved passwords or bookmarks. Browsing history also remains available after resetting Chrome settings.
Chrome restores settings including the search engine, homepage, startup pages, New Tab page, pinned tabs, content settings, cookies, extensions and themes.
Android does not offer the same desktop reset option. Users can instead troubleshoot Chrome through Safety Check, privacy settings and selected browsing-data controls.
No. Resetting Chrome restores browser settings but does not remove malware from your device. Persistent problems may require security checks and removing unwanted software.
Review extensions and website permissions, update Chrome and check security settings. Only re-enable extensions you recognise and trust after completing the reset.