Why does Google Chrome keep crashing?

WITH more than 2.6billion users, Google Chrome is a staple in peoples lives - which makes it all the more frustrating when it can't be accessed.

With so many internet users, at least a handful of us are going to run into some issues sooner or later.

Here's seven reasons why your Chrome browser might crash, and what you can do to fix it:

Outdated Chrome Version

One of the most common reasons for a faulty browser is if you're using an outdated version.

Google is constantly updating Chrome with bug fixes and security improvements behind the scenes.

Pub delivers five-word response to critics of its 'slow' carvery service

So, make sure you're up to date by checking your Settings.

No memory

If your computer has run out of memory, you won't be able to load any site via Chrome whilst also running your apps, extensions and programs.

To free up memory, try these four tips:

• Close every tab except for the one that’s showing the error message.
• Quit other apps or programs that are running.
• Pause any app or file downloads.
• Uninstall extensions that you don't need. Learn how to uninstall extensions.

Once you tried these, click on the tab with the error and try reloading.

Network issues

If the page didn't load in another browser, it could be a problem with your internet network.

Try restarting your Wi-Fi router.

If you suspect you're experiencing issues with your internet connection, reach out to your broadband provider for help.

Error in Chrome user profile

There could be something wrong with your Chrome profile that's causing problems.

Your Chrome user profile contains all of your settings and preferences.

But if your user profile becomes corrupted for some mysterious reason, it can cause Chrome to crash.

Millions of Android owners could slash 'vampire bills' – how to save money

In this instance, Google suggests uninstalling Chrome and making sure that you tick the box to delete browsing data.

Then simply reinstall it again.

Alternatively, you can try creating a new user profile to see if that resolves the issue.

If the new profile works, you can move your bookmarks to the new profile.

Incompatible Chrome extensions or apps

Another culprit behind your crashing Chrome could be one of your browser extensions or apps.

If one of these is no longer compatible with Chrome, it could prompt the entire browser to falter.

In this case, Google advises users to uninstall all extensions, then add them back one by one.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. On your computer, open Chrome.
2. At the top right, click the three vertical dots in the top right > Settings.
3. Click Reset and clean up > Update or remove incompatible applications.
   • If you don’t see this option, there isn’t a problem application.
4. Decide if you want to update or remove each app in the list.
   • Open your computer’s app store and look for an update. If you can't see an update, check the app's site for more information.

Corrupt Cache

In the same way a corrupt profile can crash your browser, so can corrupted cache.

Chrome stores temporary files, images, and other data in its cache to help speed up page loading times.

However, if this data becomes corrupted or outdated, it can cause issues with the browser’s performance.

Luckily, this is one of the easiest issues to fix.

All you need to do is clear your cache in the Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.

Hardware acceleration issues

The final issue is probably the most complex.

But if you've tried everything else, then the problem could lie with how your computer's hardware works with Chrome.

This is more common on older systems or systems with outdated hardware.

If you have recently upgraded your hardware or drivers, try rolling back to the previous version to see if that resolves the issue.

1. In Chrome, click the three vertical dots in the top right hand corner and select Settings.
2. At the bottom, click System.
3. Turn off Use hardware acceleration when available.
4. Restart Chrome.

How do I restart chrome?

1. Quit Chrome and reopen it:
   • Windows: Press Ctrl + q.
   • Mac: Press ⌘ + q.
2. Try loading the page again.
   • Tip: You can reopen any tabs that were open before:
     • Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + t.
     • Mac: Press ⌘ + Shift+ t.

Alternatively, you can try restarting your computer.

We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at tech@the-sun.co.uk