How to fix "Aw, Snap!" errors in Google Chrome
"Aw, Snap!" means the page's process crashed. First click Reload. If it keeps happening: close other tabs to free memory, open the page in an Incognito window (Ctrl+Shift+N) to test extensions, clear cached images and files, and update Chrome (⋮ > Help > About Google Chrome).
If Incognito works, an extension is the cause - disable extensions one by one at chrome://extensions.
Applies to Chrome on Windows, Mac and ChromeOS. Error codes shown under the message (like Out of Memory or STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION) point to the likely cause.
Fix Aw, Snap! in order
- Click Reload. One-off crashes often don't come back.
- Close tabs and apps you don't need - many crashes are caused by low memory (Out of Memory).
- Press Ctrl+Shift+N and open the page in Incognito. If it works there, go to
chrome://extensionsand switch extensions off one at a time to find the culprit. - Clear the cache: press Ctrl+Shift+Delete, tick Cached images and files, click Delete data.
- Update Chrome from ⋮ > Help > About Google Chrome, then Relaunch.
- Turn off hardware acceleration: Settings > System > untick Use graphics acceleration when available, then relaunch.
- Restart your computer.
- Try a new Chrome profile (click your profile icon > Add) to rule out a corrupted profile.
Common Aw, Snap! error codes
| Code | Likely cause | Try |
|---|---|---|
| Out of Memory | Too many tabs or a heavy page | Close tabs, restart Chrome |
| STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION | Conflicting software or extension | Disable extensions, update Chrome, check antivirus |
| STATUS_BREAKPOINT | Chrome bug or overclocked/unstable PC | Update Chrome, reset overclock |
| RESULT_CODE_HUNG | Page stopped responding | Reload, clear cache |
| Error code 5 / STATUS_INVALID_IMAGE_HASH | Security software interfering | Update or temporarily disable third-party antivirus |
Reset Chrome settings
If nothing else works, reset Chrome: click More (⋮) > Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings. Google says your bookmarks and saved passwords aren't deleted; the search engine, homepage, startup tabs, extensions and themes, and cookies are reset. Full steps: how to reset Chrome settings.
Check for unwanted software
Programs that inject into browsers (some antivirus, VPN or ad software) can cause crashes. Uninstall software you don't recognise via Settings > Apps > Installed apps, and run a scan with Windows Security.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aw, Snap! a virus?
Not usually - it's a crash. But repeated crashes plus unexpected ads can signal unwanted software; run a malware scan.
Why does it happen only on one website?
That site may be very memory-heavy or use a feature your graphics driver struggles with. Try turning off hardware acceleration.
Will reinstalling Chrome help?
Sometimes. Sign in to Chrome sync first so bookmarks and passwords are restored.