Google Chrome is a powerful and versatile web browser, loved for its speed, setup simplicity, and user-friendly design. However, its one key characteristic that is not universally embraced is its capacity to continue with background processes even after being shut down. This functionality may especially be undesirable to those who seek to optimize their device’s performance.
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With a better understanding of these background processes, their mechanics and how Chrome utilizes them, you can learn the ropes of terminating this setup. By examining Google Chrome’s settings, you’ll become accustomed to the utility’s labyrinth and unveil checkbox-ticking paths that tamper with Chrome’s post-closure activity.
Understanding Google Chrome’s Background Processes
About Google Chrome Background Processes
Google Chrome is a fast, efficient web browser that many people use on a daily basis. However, one aspect often overlooked is that Chrome runs background processes even after the browser is closed. These background processes are used for a variety of functions like syncing your Google account, updating extensions, and speeding up load times when you reopen Chrome. While these features can be useful, they also use more of your computer’s resources, which could slow down other tasks.
Disabling Google Chrome Background Processes
If you find that these background processes are causing your computer to run slowly, you can follow these steps to disable them:
- Open Google Chrome on your computer.
- Click the three dots on the right-hand corner of your browser window to open the Chrome menu.
- From the dropdown list, click on ‘Settings’.
- Scroll down to the ‘System’ section.
- Here, you will see an option that says ‘Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed’.
- To disable Chrome running in the background, simply click the switch next to this option. If it’s blue, that means it’s enabled; it will turn grey when disabled.
By following these steps, you can prevent Chrome from running processes in the background. However, remember that this might affect some Chrome features. If you notice any changes in Chrome function that you do not like, you can always follow these steps again to re-enable the background processes.
Exploring Google Chrome’s Settings
Navigating Chrome’s Settings
To begin disabling Google Chrome from running in the background, you need to first navigate to the browser’s settings. To do this, click on the three vertical dots located at the top right corner of the Chrome window.
From the drop-down menu that appears, select ‘Settings’, which is typically at or near the bottom of the list.
System Settings
Further scroll down to the ‘System’ section. This section contains options on how Google Chrome interacts with your computer’s system operations. Here, you will find settings such as “Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed” or “Use hardware acceleration when available.”
Disabling Chrome Running in Background
To prevent Google Chrome from running in the background, look for an option that reads “Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed.” By default, this option is typically turned on, indicating that Chrome continues to run background processes even when you’ve closed the browser. Click the toggle switch next to this option to turn it off. Once the toggle switch moves to the left and changes color, you’ve successfully disabled Chrome from running in the background.
Remember to navigate through these options carefully, only changing what you understand, as altering certain Chrome settings could affect your browsing experience. Utilize the detailed descriptions provided below each feature and setting to ensure you’re making informed decisions.
Moreover, while you’re in the ‘System’ section, consider exploring other system-related settings as well. For instance, the “Use hardware acceleration when available” option could significantly speed up your browsing and overall Chrome performance if your computer’s hardware supports it. But like any Chrome setting, the effects will vary depending on your specific use case and system specifications.
By spending time familiarizing with Chrome’s various settings and options, you can optimize the browser’s performance to better suit your needs and preferences. It’s a trial and error process, so don’t hesitate to revisit these settings as you continue to use Chrome and feel the changes in its operation.
Final Thoughts
In essence, harnessing command over Google Chrome’s behavior, specifically its tendency to run background applications after closure, rests on a clear understanding of the browser’s mechanisms. Comprehending how and where the browser’s settings can influence this behavior is vital. Whether you are operating on Windows, MacOS, or Linux, the process to disable this function should no longer be a hassle. By following the precise steps outlined, you can ensure Chrome exits politely when you finish browsing, without leaving any function running. This know-how can go a long way in enhancing your user experience and device performance. If you notice something wrong in the steps or article, Click here to suggest
Nishant Verma is a senior web developer who love to share his knowledge about Linux, SysAdmin, and more other web handlers. Currently, he loves to write as content contributor for ServoNode and also collaborated with MRLabs now.