Guide · 4 min read
How to Load an Unpacked Chrome Extension
The 60-second path from a folder on your desktop to a working extension in the Chrome toolbar.
You do not need the Chrome Web Store to run an extension. Loading unpacked installs a local folder directly, which is how every extension is tested during development.
Steps
- Unzip your extension so manifest.json sits at the top level of the folder (not inside a nested folder).
- Open chrome://extensions in the address bar.
- Turn on Developer mode with the toggle in the top-right corner.
- Click 'Load unpacked' and select the folder — not the .zip file.
- Pin the extension from the puzzle-piece toolbar menu so the icon is always visible.
Fixing load errors
- 'Manifest file is missing or unreadable' — you selected the wrong folder level or the JSON has a trailing comma.
- 'Could not load icon' — a path in the manifest does not match an actual file.
- 'Service worker registration failed' — a syntax error in background.js; click the Errors button to see it.
Reloading after edits
Click the circular reload arrow on the extension card after changing background or manifest files. Content-script edits also need a page refresh; popup edits apply the next time you open the popup.
Frequently asked questions
Do unpacked extensions survive a browser restart?
Yes, as long as the folder stays in the same location. Deleting or moving the folder disables the extension.
Can I share an unpacked extension?
You can share the folder or .zip and the recipient repeats these steps, but for wider distribution publish to the Chrome Web Store.
