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It’s easy to make Chrome faster with these 6 methods

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Chrome update window showing update in progress.

I love Google Chrome for its intuitive user interface and versatility. However, it is a notorious memory eater and you may notice it slows down after prolonged use. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to boost Chrome’s performance.




Update your Chrome browser

One of the first things I check when Chrome’s performance lags is to see if my browser is up to date. Google regularly releases updates that introduce new features, fix bugs, and improve security. Chrome should update automatically by default, but it’s worth checking because an outdated version of Chrome can lead to slower performance and cause compatibility and security issues.

How to update Chrome

  1. Launch the browser on your device.
  2. Click on three vertical dots in the upper right corner Chrome menu.
  3. Place the mouse pointer Helpthen click About Google Chrome.
  4. Chrome will automatically check for updates and install any available ones.

If the update is installed, restart Chrome to complete the process.

Close all unused tabs and extensions

I’m terrible at closing unused browser tabs when I’m working. Each open tab consumes memory and resources, resulting in slow performance. The same goes for browser extensions. While they improve functionality, too many of them can reduce Chrome’s efficiency.

Tips for managing cards and extensions

  1. Check your open tabs regularly and close any you no longer need. You can also use bookmarks to save important pages to access them later.
  2. Chrome allows you to group tabs, which can help you organize your workflow without dozens of tabs cluttering up your interface.
  3. Go to Chrome menu hover the mouse in the upper right corner Extensionand then select Manage extensions. Disable or remove any extensions you don’t use often.

You can also consider using lightweight alternatives for faster browsing.

Activate the Memory Saver function

Chrome Memory Saver window.


As an automatic assistant for managing tabs, Chrome offers a Memory Saver feature that improves its performance by reducing memory usage by inactive tabs. When enabled, this feature automatically frees memory from cards you’re not currently using, allowing active cards to run more smoothly.

How to activate the memory saver

  1. Open it Chrome menu and select Settings.
  2. Scroll down and search Performance section.
  3. Switch to Memory saver option to turn it on.

I have mine set up Balancedwhich deactivates my cards after the optimal time.

Configure your prefetch settings

Chrome uses a preload feature that predicts your browsing behavior and preloads the pages you might visit next. By optimizing your preload settings, you can speed up Chrome and get a better browsing experience.

It’s worth experimenting with presets to see what works best for you. Turning it off can sometimes improve performance, especially if your browsing habits don’t match the prefetch predictions.


Focus on unwanted processes

Task Manager Popup in Chrome.

Chrome is notorious for using a significant amount of memory and CPU. This is often caused by unwanted processes running in the background, resulting in slow performance. Regularly checking and managing these processes can significantly increase the speed of your browser.

Manage processes in Chrome

  1. Open it Chrome menu and place the cursor over Other tools.
  2. Choose Task manager to display all active processes.
  3. Look for processes that are using excessive CPU or memory.

If you identify any unwanted or unnecessary processes, select them and click End the process close them.

Start again from scratch

Chrome Reset Settings pop-up.


If you’ve tried all the previous methods and your Chrome browser is still dragging its heels, it may be time for a more drastic measure – resetting Chrome. This will restore your browser to its original settings and remove any custom configurations that may be causing problems. Remember that resetting Chrome will remove pinned tabs, splash pages, and other customized settings. However, bookmarks and saved passwords will remain intact.

How to reset Chrome

  1. Open it Chrome menu and click on Settings.
  2. Scroll down and click on Reset settings.
  3. Choose Restore the settings to their original default values.
  4. A confirmation window will appear. Click Restore settings continue.

Chrome is deservedly the most popular browser by some margin, with more than 60% of the global market share. As with most of Google’s lifestyle and productivity tools, I’m a big fan of Chrome, even though it’s not without bugs and can be very CPU intensive.


Making sure I go through this list of simple fixes whenever Chrome starts to lag will greatly improve my browsing experience, increase productivity, and make my sessions more enjoyable. Each fix can be done from within Chrome and takes seconds, which can save hours of frustration in the long run.

Comments

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