Google Chrome is a very popular web browser that many people use on different devices like computers and phones. But sometimes, it uses up a lot of memory, making it crash and show an error message.
If you see a message saying, “Aw, Snap! Something went wrong while displaying this webpage. Error Code: Out of Memory” don’t panic! This article will help you fix the problem and make Google Chrome work again on your Windows computer.
1. Causes of Google Chrome Out-of-Memory Error
Understanding the reasons behind the out-of-memory error in Google Chrome is crucial to fix it. Several factors can trigger this issue:
- Accumulation of cache and cookies in the browser
- Browser extensions
- Multiple open tabs in the browser
- Numerous background apps consuming PC memory
- Incorrect installation or settings of the browser
- Corrupted user profile
2. How to Fix Google Chrome Out of Memory Error
Now that we know the possible causes let’s explore the solutions to resolve this memory error.
2.1 Close Unnecessary Tabs
Having too many open tabs can consume a significant amount of CPU and memory. Close any tabs that you don’t need or aren’t actively using. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, continue with the next steps.
2.2 Restart the Browser
A simple browser restart can often fix the out-of-memory error. Here’s how to do it:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
- Click on Google Chrome and then right click with your mouse to open options
- Click on End Task
- Close all other tasks related to Google Chrome
- Relaunch Google Chrome on your PC
If this doesn’t fix the problem, consider closing unnecessary apps using the same method, which will free up some memory.
2.3 Disable Browser Extensions
Chrome extensions can sometimes cause memory issues. To disable them, follow these steps:
- Open Google Chrome and navigate to chrome://extensions/
- Turn off all unnecessary extensions
2.4 Clear Cache and Cookies
Cache and cookies help improve the browsing experience but can cause issues over time. Clearing them might fix the memory error:
- In Chrome, go to chrome://settings/clearBrowserData
- Click the drop-down menu next to Time Range and select All Time
- Check the boxes for Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files (optionally, select Browsing History)
- Click on Clear Data
2.5 Turn Off Hardware Acceleration
Hardware Acceleration makes the browser use your PC resources to improve performance. Disabling it might resolve the memory error:
- Click the Menu icon in Chrome, then click on Settings
- Under the System tab, turn off the toggle for Use hardware acceleration when available
- Restart your browser to save the changes
2.6 Create a New Profile
A corrupted user profile can also cause memory errors. To create a new profile:
- Click on the user icon in the top right corner, then click on Add
- Choose either Sign in or Continue without an account
- If you pick Continue without an account, enter a name for the new profile and select a theme color, then click on Done
2.7 Update Google Chrome
An outdated browser can also lead to memory errors. Update Chrome by:
- Opening the Google Chrome menu, click Help, and then About Google Chrome
- Chrome will automatically check for updates and install them if available
2.8 Clear Temporary Files
Clearing temporary files can help resolve memory errors in Google Chrome:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Under the System tab, click on Storage
- Click on the Temporary Files option
- Check the boxes for items you want to remove, then click on Remove Files
2.9 Scan Chrome for Malware
In some cases, the Aw Snap Chrome error may be attributed to malware present on your device. While this can be alarming, several key indicators can help you identify a potential security vulnerability:
- Alerts from your antivirus software
- Unusual advertisements and frequent pop-up windows
- Unauthorized modifications to your browser settings
- Slow loading speed
- The reappearance of previously removed extensions or toolbars
- Unexpected redirects to unfamiliar websites
If you suspect malware on your Windows computer, Chrome offers a convenient built-in cleanup tool.
To access it, follow these steps:
1. Go to Settings, then Advanced
2. Find Reset and clean up, then Clean up computer.
3. Click on the “Find” button to initiate a malware scan through Chrome.
4. If any unwanted software is detected, simply click “Remove” to delete it.
2.10 Reset Chrome Settings
Incorrect Chrome settings can also cause memory issues. Reset the settings by:
- Type chrome://settings in the address bar and press Enter
- Search for Reset Settings
- Click on Reset settings to their original defaults
- Click on Reset Settings to confirm
2.11 Reinstall Google Chrome
If nothing else works, you may need to reinstall Chrome:
- Click Start menu then Settings.
- Click Apps then Apps & features.
- From the list of apps, click on Google Chrome and then Uninstall
- Restart your PC after uninstalling Chrome
- Visit Chrome’s download page and click on Download Chrome
- Run the setup wizard and follow the on-screen instructions to install Chrome
Conclusion
Out-of-memory errors are common in Google Chrome, but there’s no need to panic. This troubleshooting guide provides a range of solutions to fix it. If any of these steps helped you resolve the issue or if you found another solution, let us know in the comments section.
