Quick Answer
Go to Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults, then click Reset settings to confirm. This clears your homepage, new tab page, pinned tabs, search engine, and disables extensions, without touching your bookmarks, passwords, or history.
When You Might Need This
A browser reset fixes problems caused by a rogue extension, a hijacked search engine or homepage, unwanted redirects, or a general buildup of conflicting settings, all without the full data loss of a Powerwash.
Fix Steps
Step 1: Open Chrome settings
Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of Chrome, then select Settings.
Step 2: Find the reset option
Scroll down and click “Reset settings” in the left sidebar, then “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
Step 3: Confirm the reset
Click “Reset settings” in the confirmation dialog. This takes effect immediately without a restart.
Step 4: Re-enable any extensions you trust
The reset disables all extensions rather than uninstalling them. Go to chrome://extensions to turn back on the ones you still want, ideally one at a time if you suspect one caused the original problem.
Step 5: Reset flags separately if needed
A settings reset does not clear experimental flags. If you’ve been testing ChromeOS flags, reset those separately at chrome://flags.
Still Not Fixed?
If problems persist after a full settings reset with extensions still disabled, the issue is likely deeper than browser configuration. Try Powerwashing the device next.
FAQ
Does resetting Chrome settings delete my bookmarks?
No. Bookmarks, saved passwords, and browsing history are untouched by a settings reset; only configuration and extensions are affected.
Will this fix “Aw, Snap!” crashes?
It can help if a misbehaving extension or corrupted setting is the cause. See our dedicated “Aw, Snap!” guide for other causes if resetting doesn’t help.
Do I need to sign out of my Google account to reset settings?
No, a settings reset works while signed in and doesn’t affect your account or synced data stored on Google’s servers.
