How to reset Chrome to default settings

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To reset Chrome to its default settings, navigate to the Chrome settings menu, scroll down to 'Advanced', and select 'Restore settings to their original defaults'. This process will remove all extensions, clear temporary data, and reset your homepage and search engine settings.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before proceeding with the reset, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •A computer running Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, or Linux.
  • •Administrative access to the browser settings.
  • •Backup important data, such as bookmarks and saved passwords, as they may be affected.
  • •Ensure Chrome is updated to the latest version for optimal performance.

Method 1: Resetting Chrome via Settings

This method is the most straightforward way to reset Chrome and is suitable for most users.
  • •Step 1: Open Chrome and click on the three vertical dots (⋮) in the top right corner to access the menu.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and click on 'Advanced' to expand the advanced settings.
  • •Step 4: Under the 'Reset and clean up' section, click on 'Restore settings to their original defaults'.
  • •Step 5: A confirmation dialog will appear. Click 'Reset settings' to confirm.
  • •Step 6: To verify, check if the homepage and search engine settings have reverted to default.
  • •Step 7: If the reset does not appear to work, try restarting Chrome or your computer.

For Windows 11

Follow these specific steps for Windows 11 users.
  • •Step 1: Click the Start button and type 'Chrome' in the search bar.
  • •Step 2: Right-click on Chrome and select 'Run as administrator' to ensure you have the necessary permissions.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as in Method 1 to reset Chrome.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow these steps.
  • •Step 1: Open Chrome and click on the three vertical dots (⋮) in the top right corner.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as in Method 1 to reset Chrome.

Method 2: Resetting Chrome via Command Line

This method is useful for advanced users or when the GUI is unresponsive.
  • •Step 1: Press 'Windows + R' to open the Run dialog.
  • •Step 2: Type 'cmd' and press 'Enter' to open the Command Prompt.
  • •Step 3: Type the command: 'chrome.exe --reset-variation-state' and press 'Enter'.
  • •Step 4: Close and reopen Chrome to see if the settings have been reset.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the reset process, refer to the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Reset settings failed' - Solution: Ensure you have administrative rights and try restarting Chrome.
  • •Issue: Chrome not responding after reset - Fix: Restart your computer and check for updates.
  • •Problem: Extensions still active after reset - Workaround: Manually disable or remove extensions from the 'Extensions' menu.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Chrome experience with these tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + Shift + Delete' - Opens the Clear Browsing Data dialog quickly.
  • •Command line: 'chrome://settings/reset' - Directly accesses the reset settings page.
  • •Hidden feature: 'chrome://flags' - Access experimental features and settings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regular maintenance of your browser settings can prevent the need for a reset.