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, go to chrome://settings/reset > Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings. This disables extensions and resets the startup page and search engine, but keeps bookmarks, history and passwords.
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.