How to Add and Install Extensions in Google Chrome (2025 Guide)

Google Chrome extensions are powerful tools that can enhance your browsing experience by adding new features, improving productivity, or customizing your browser. Whether you're looking to block ads, save passwords, or improve your social media workflow, installing Chrome extensions is a quick and simple process. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to add and install extensions in Google Chrome so you can tailor your browser to fit your needs.

Why Should You Use Chrome Extensions?

Chrome extensions are small software programs that add functionality to the Google Chrome browser. They can help automate tasks, enhance the features of websites, and even add entirely new capabilities. Some of the popular types of extensions include:

• Ad Blockers: Block unwanted ads from showing up on websites.
• Password Managers: Automatically fill in your saved passwords for quick access.
• Productivity Tools: Track your time, manage your tasks, and organize your browser tabs.
• Developer Tools: Add specific tools for debugging and inspecting web pages.

Method 1: Add Extensions from the Chrome Web Store

The Chrome Web Store is the official marketplace for Google Chrome extensions. This is the safest and most efficient method for adding extensions to your browser.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome

Make sure Google Chrome is installed and open on your computer. If you don't have it yet, download it from the official Google Chrome website.

Step 2: Go to the Chrome Web Store

To start the installation process, open a new tab and go to the Chrome Web Store.

Step 3: Search for the Extension You Want

In the search bar on the top-left corner of the page, type the name of the extension you're looking for. For example, if you're looking to install an ad blocker, type “Adblock Plus” or "uBlock Origin" to find the relevant extension.

Step 4: Choose an Extension

Browse through the results, and click on the extension that interests you. You'll see its description, user ratings, and reviews to help you decide if it suits your needs.

Step 5: Add the Extension to Chrome

Browse through the results, and click on the extension that interests you. You'll see its description, user ratings, and reviews to help you decide if it suits your needs.

Step 6: Confirm Extension Installation

Click Add Extension in the pop-up window to confirm. The extension will begin downloading and installing. You’ll see a notification once the installation is complete.

Step 7: Access the Extension

After installation, you can find the extension’s icon in the Chrome toolbar on the top-right corner of your browser. Simply click on the icon to access the extension’s features.

Method 2: Add Extensions via Chrome Settings

You can also access extensions through the Chrome settings menu and install them manually if you have the extension file.

Step 1: Access Chrome Settings

You can navigate directly to the settings menu from where you can manage your extensions.

• Open Google Chrome and click the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner.
• From the drop-down, go to Extensions.
• Alternatively, type chrome://extensions into the address bar and hit Enter.

Why This Step is Important:

You need to access the Extensions page to add and manage extensions.

Step 2: Enable Developer Mode (if installing manually)

If you have a custom extension file (.zip, .crx) or need to install an extension manually, you’ll need to enable Developer Mode.

• On the Extensions page, toggle Developer Mode to ON in the top-right corner.

Why This Step is Important:

Developer mode allows you to install extensions that are not available on the Web Store, such as custom-built extensions.

Step 3: Install the Extension Manually

You can install extensions directly from a .zip or .crx file.

• Click on Load unpacked to load an extension from your computer.
• Browse for the extension folder (unpacked extension).
• Click on the folder to install the extension manually.

Why This Step is Important:

This method is useful when you want to add custom extensions or extensions that are not available on the Chrome Web Store.

Method 3: Use the Chrome Extensions Sidebar

If you have extensions that can be accessed via a sidebar, you can directly manage them through this sidebar.

Step 1: Open Extensions Sidebar

Some extensions, like Grammarly or Evernote Web Clipper, work directly in the Chrome sidebar.

• Click on the Extension Icon Visible on the top right corner of the Chrome Sidebar.

Why This Step is Important:

Accessing the extensions through the sidebar offers an alternative way to manage your Chrome extensions.

Step 2: Activate the Sidebar Extension

To use an extension that operates via the sidebar:

• Look for extensions that are designed to operate in the sidebar (such as Notion Web Clipper, Grammarly or Todoist).
• Click the extension’s icon, and it will open on the sidebar where you can manage its settings.

Why This Step is Important:

These extensions work differently from traditional extensions by offering a side view for more workspace.

How to Manage Extensions in Google Chrome

Once you've installed extensions, managing them is simple. Here’s how to control the settings of your installed extensions.

Step 1: Open the Extension Menu

Click the three vertical dots in the upper-right corner of your Chrome browser to open the menu. Then go to More Tools > Extensions.

Step 2: Enable or Disable Extensions

In the Extensions menu, you’ll see a list of all your installed extensions. To disable or enable an extension, toggle the switch next to its name. Disabled extensions are not active, but they are still installed.

Step 3: Remove Extensions

If you no longer need an extension, click Remove next to it in the Extensions menu. Confirm the removal to delete the extension from your Chrome browser.

Troubleshooting Extension Installation Issues

Sometimes, installing extensions can be tricky. Here are some common issues and solutions:

• Error Message During Installation: If you get an error when installing an extension, make sure that your Chrome is up to date. You can check for updates by going to Settings > About Chrome and checking for updates.
• Extension Not Working Properly: If an extension isn’t working as expected, try disabling other extensions to check for conflicts. Also, ensure the extension has the necessary permissions to run.
• Unable to Add Extension: If Chrome is preventing you from adding an extension, ensure that you are logged into your Google account and have no restrictions on extensions in your Chrome settings.

Conclusion

Installing extensions in Google Chrome is an easy way to expand the functionality of your browser. Whether you need tools for productivity, security, or entertainment, Chrome's extension library offers a wide range of options to suit every need. By following the steps outlined above, you can start installing extensions to make your browsing experience more efficient and personalized today.