Reset Google Chrome to default configuration without Re-installation

September 9th, 2009

Last week, we have covered Internet Explorer and Firefox and described, “How can we reset their settings to default without Re-installation?” Now its time to Google Chrome.

Both Internet Explorer and Firefox have direct or indirect ways to reset their settings. But in case of Google Chrome, there is no direct or indirect method. Finally we have figured out the Google Chrome, how it manages all settings and First Run instance.

How To:

Google Chrome doesn’t store any Windows Registry, instead of creates a 0KB file called First Run at the root of installation directory. Chrome checks existence of this file, when it run.

Google Chrome creates a 0KB file called First Run

If the First Run exists, Chrome bypasses the Run first time wizard and launch browsing window, Else follow the Run first time wizard to customize settings.

Google Chrome running first time

Customize Chrome settings

So we can reset it by simply deleting this file, the file can be found at root of installation directory or default locations:

For Windows XP

C:\Documents and Settings\UserName\Local Settings\Application Data\Google\Chrome\Application

For Windows Vista/Windows 7

C:\Users\UserName\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\Application

Applies To:
  • Google Chrome (all version including Betas)

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One Response to “Reset Google Chrome to default configuration without Re-installation”

  1. Icko says:

    Thanks for tips.

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