Learn how to fix Chrome Error Code STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION and resolve the ‘Aw, Snap!’ error in 2025. Follow our step-by-step guide for quick solutions
Encountering the “Aw, Snap!” error with Error Code: STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION in Chrome can halt your browsing experience. This error disrupts page loading and can leave you frustrated. Though common in Google Chrome and Chromium-based browsers like Microsoft Edge, the error can usually be fixed by following simple steps.

In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of this issue and provide clear, actionable solutions. Whether you’re using Windows or Mac, we’ve got you covered.
What Causes Chrome STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION Error?
Understanding what triggers STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION can speed up troubleshooting. Here are the key reasons:
Mishandling of Code: Chrome’s memory can be accessed by unauthorized code, triggering this error. This often happens due to third-party software or conflicts within settings.
Outdated Version: Running an outdated version of Chrome can lead to compatibility issues, causing the STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION error. Always keep your browser up-to-date to avoid these problems.
Excessive Extensions: Too many extensions can cause conflicts in Chrome, especially if they interfere with how the browser loads pages, resulting in this error.
Chromium-Based Browsers: Since Chrome and Microsoft Edge are built on the Chromium engine, this error can appear in both. Code management issues can affect both browsers similarly.
Aw Snap STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION: What Does It Mean?
The “Aw, Snap!” message followed by STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION means that Chrome failed to load a webpage. This issue often arises from memory mismanagement, code conflicts, or browser misconfigurations, preventing Chrome from rendering the page properly.
How Do I Permanently Fix ‘Aw, Snap!’ in Chrome?
To eliminate the “Aw, Snap!” error, here are some permanent fixes:
Rename the Chrome Executable:
Many users have fixed this error by renaming the Chrome executable file. Right-click the Chrome icon on your desktop, select Open File Location, and find chrome.exe. Rename it to something like chrome1 or chromeold. Restart Chrome and see if the error disappears.
Disable RendererCodeIntegrity Feature:
This Windows 10 feature helps prevent unauthorized code from altering how Chrome loads pages. Disabling it can resolve the STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION error.
Right-click the Chrome shortcut, select Properties, and add --disable-features=RendererCodeIntegrity
to the Target field. Click Apply and OK, then restart Chrome. Alternatively, you can disable this feature through Registry Editor.
Chrome Crashing with STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION? Try These Fixes!
If Chrome crashes with STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION, try these steps:
Clear Cache and Cookies: Clearing your browser data is often the first fix.
Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data. Set Time Range to All Time, check Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files, and click Clear Data.
Disable Extensions: Extensions can sometimes cause this issue.
Go to chrome://extensions and disable them all. Restart Chrome to check if the error still occurs. If it doesn’t, enable extensions one by one to identify the culprit.
Reset Chrome Settings: If clearing cache and disabling extensions don’t work, reset Chrome settings to their defaults.
Open Settings > Advanced > Restore settings to their original defaults.
How to Fix Google Chrome STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION Error on Windows
For Windows users, try these fixes:
Ensure Windows Is Updated: Outdated Windows updates can impact Chrome’s performance. Make sure your Windows 10/11 is up-to-date with the latest updates to avoid compatibility issues.
Run Chrome as Administrator: Sometimes Chrome needs higher permissions. Right-click the Chrome shortcut, select Properties, go to the Shortcut tab, click Advanced, and check Run as Administrator. Restart Chrome using this shortcut.
Disable Chrome Sandbox: The sandbox feature can sometimes interfere with Chrome’s performance. Right-click the Chrome shortcut, select Properties, and in the Target field, add --no-sandbox
(after the path to the application). Click Apply and OK, then restart Chrome.
Alternative Methods to Fix STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION in Chrome
If none of the above fixes work, try these alternatives:
Try an Alternative Browser: If Chrome is giving you persistent problems, switch to Microsoft Edge or Mozilla Firefox. This is a temporary fix while waiting for a more permanent solution. You can explore other privacy-focused and lightweight browser options for 2025 in our detailed guide to the best browser alternatives.
Update Graphics Drivers: Outdated Intel, Nvidia, or AMD graphics drivers can lead to issues with Chrome. Make sure to update your drivers to ensure smooth browser performance.
Official Google Support: For more official troubleshooting methods from Google, you can visit their Chrome help page.
Conclusion
The Chrome Error Code STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION can be disruptive, but with the right approach, you can resolve it quickly. From renaming the executable to disabling problematic extensions and resetting your browser, there are several ways to fix the issue.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to get Chrome back to normal. If the issue persists, consider reinstalling Chrome or checking for any system-wide conflicts. With the right fixes, you can return to a smooth browsing experience.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chrome Error Code STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION?
This error occurs when Chrome encounters memory access issues, typically due to mishandling of code, outdated browser versions, excessive extensions, or system conflicts.
Why does my Chrome keep crashing with STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION?
Persistent crashes are usually caused by corrupted data, incompatible extensions, or an outdated version of Chrome.
Can I fix Chrome Error Code STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION by updating my browser?
Yes, updating to the latest version of Chrome often resolves compatibility issues that lead to this error.
How do I know if an extension is causing the STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION error?
To pinpoint the issue, disable all extensions. If the error disappears, enable them one by one to identify the problem extension.
Can using Incognito mode help with the STATUS_ACCESS_VIOLATION error?
Yes, since Incognito mode disables extensions, it can help you determine if an extension is responsible for the error.
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