The Err_File_Not_Found error is a common issue that Google Chrome users may encounter while browsing the web or developing Chrome extensions. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the causes of this error and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it effectively.
Introduction to Err_File_Not_Found

The Err_File_Not_Found error occurs when Google Chrome is unable to locate a specific file necessary to display a webpage or run an extension. This error is unique to Chrome and is similar to the well-known 404 error, but it often points to issues within the browser itself rather than problems on the server side.
Users typically encounter this error in the following scenarios:
- When trying to access local HTML files
- While using certain Chrome extensions
- During the development and testing of Chrome extensions
- When attempting to open files with incorrect paths
The impact of this error can range from minor inconveniences to significant disruptions in workflow, especially for developers working on Chrome extensions.
Common Causes of Err_File_Not_Found
Understanding the root causes of the Err_File_Not_Found error is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Here are the most common reasons this error occurs:
- Missing or Deleted Files: The file Chrome is trying to access may have been moved, deleted, or renamed.
- Incorrect File Paths: Mistakes in file paths, especially when dealing with local files, can lead to this error.
- Issues with Browser Extensions: Faulty, outdated, or conflicting extensions can cause Chrome to fail in locating necessary files.
- Corrupted Browser Data: Corrupted cache, cookies, or other temporary data can interfere with Chrome’s file access.
- Network Connectivity Problems: Unstable or restricted network connections can sometimes result in file access issues.
How to Fix Err_File_Not_Found Error
Let’s explore various methods to resolve the Err_File_Not_Found error, starting with the simplest solutions and progressing to more advanced troubleshooting techniques.
3.1 Disable Chrome Extensions
Extensions are a common source of the Err_File_Not_Found error. Follow these steps to disable them:

- Click on the three vertical dots in the upper right corner of Chrome to open the menu.
- Go to “More Tools” > “Extensions“.
- Toggle off each extension one by one.
- After disabling an extension, refresh the page to see if the error persists.
- If the error disappears after disabling a specific extension, you’ve identified the problematic one.
3.2 Remove Problematic Extensions
If disabling extensions doesn’t work, try removing persistent extensions:
- Navigate to
%LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Extensions
. - Delete folders of extensions you’ve previously uninstalled but may still be causing issues.
- Restart Chrome and check if the error is resolved.
3.3 Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Clearing cache and cookies can often resolve the Err_File_Not_Found error:
- Open Chrome Settings (three dots > Settings).
- Go to “Privacy and security” > “Clear browsing data“.
- Select “Cached images and files” and “Cookies and other site data“.
- Click “Clear data” and restart Chrome.
3.4 Reset Google Chrome Settings
If the above methods don’t work, try resetting Chrome:

- Go to Chrome Settings > “Advanced” > “Reset and clean up”.
- Click “Restore settings to their original defaults“.
- Confirm by clicking “Reset settings“.
This will disable all extensions and delete temporary data, often resolving the error.
3.5 Check and Correct File Paths
For developers or users accessing local files:
- Ensure file paths in your code or browser are correct.
- Double-check that files haven’t been moved or deleted.
- Verify that file names and extensions are correct.
3.6 Update Google Chrome
Keeping Chrome updated can prevent and resolve many errors:
- Click the three dots > “Help” > “About Google Chrome“.
- Chrome will automatically check for and install any available updates.
- Restart the browser after updating.
3.7 Reinstall Google Chrome
As a last resort, reinstalling Chrome can fix persistent issues:

- Uninstall Chrome from your computer.
- For Mac users, follow our guide on uninstalling Chrome on Mac for a clean removal.
- Download the latest version from the official Google Chrome website.
- Install and set up Chrome again.
Preventing Err_File_Not_Found Errors
To minimize the occurrence of Err_File_Not_Found errors in the future:
- Regularly update Chrome and all installed extensions.
- Be cautious when installing new extensions, and only use those from trusted sources.
- Maintain proper file organization, especially when working with local files.
- Use reliable antivirus software to prevent malware that could interfere with Chrome’s operations.
Troubleshooting Err_File_Not_Found for Developers
Developers often encounter this error when working on Chrome extensions. Here are some tips:
- Check your manifest file (manifest.json) for correct file paths and permissions.
- Ensure all referenced files in your extension code exist and are in the correct locations.
- Use Chrome’s developer tools to debug your extension and identify any file loading issues.
- Test your extension in Chrome’s incognito mode to rule out conflicts with other extensions.
For developers working with Chrome OS, you might find our guide on using Chrome OS in VirtualBox helpful for testing and development purposes.
When to Seek Further Help
If you’ve tried all the above solutions and still encounter the Err_File_Not_Found error:
- Consult Chrome support forums for community-driven solutions.
- Contact Google Chrome support directly for more personalized assistance.
- Consider seeking help from a professional IT service, especially if the issue is affecting your work or development projects.
Additional Tips and Considerations
- If you’re experiencing frequent crashes along with the Err_File_Not_Found error, check out our guide on fixing Google Chrome crashes for more targeted solutions.
- For Xiaomi users who prefer Chrome, learn how to set Chrome as the default browser on Xiaomi devices to ensure a smoother browsing experience.
- If you’ve lost important bookmarks while troubleshooting, don’t panic. We have a guide on how to recover deleted bookmarks in Chrome that might help you retrieve your valuable data.
Conclusion
The Err_File_Not_Found error in Google Chrome can be frustrating, but it’s usually resolvable with the right approach. By understanding its causes and following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively tackle this error and ensure a smoother browsing and development experience with Chrome.
FAQs about Err_File_Not_Found
- Q: Can the Err_File_Not_Found error affect other browsers? A: This specific error is unique to Google Chrome. Other browsers may have similar errors but with different names.
- Q: Will resetting Chrome delete my bookmarks and saved passwords? A: No, resetting Chrome doesn’t affect bookmarks, saved passwords, or other synced data.
- Q: How can I prevent Err_File_Not_Found errors when developing Chrome extensions? A: Always double-check file paths in your manifest and code, keep your development environment organized, and test thoroughly in different Chrome versions.
- Q: Is the Err_File_Not_Found error a security risk? A: Generally, no. It’s usually a file access issue rather than a security problem. However, if it occurs unexpectedly, it’s worth running a malware scan.
- Q: Can network issues cause Err_File_Not_Found errors? A: Yes, unstable or restricted network connections can sometimes lead to file access problems, resulting in this error.