Review the browser extensions you actually need
Check publisher, permissions and continued support before an extension can read your pages.
Follow the method ↓
The answer in 30 seconds
An extension is a small program with its own access to the browser. A familiar store listing does not explain why it needs every permission it requests, and a useful extension can become unnecessary later.
List your installed extensions, remove those you no longer use, and inspect the remaining publishers and site access. Grant access only where the feature needs it and revisit the list after browser updates.
Examples to adapt
Ask why it needs to read all websites when you only use it in shops.
Check whether the organisation manages it before changing its settings.
If you cannot identify its purpose or publisher, remove it and see whether anything useful is missing.
Follow the method
- 1Inventory
Open your browser's extension manager and record the ones enabled, their publishers and purpose.
- 2Inspect access
Read the site access and optional permissions; distinguish access on click, selected sites and all sites.
- 3Reduce or remove
Limit access when possible and uninstall extensions you no longer need.
- 4Test normal tasks
Reopen a familiar page and verify the browser still does what you need without the removed add-on.
A checklist to keep
Use these checks to record what you found. The grid supports a decision; it does not make one for you.
| Check | What to examine | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | What task does this extension solve? | Keep or remove |
| Publisher | Can you identify who maintains it? | Check |
| Access | Which websites can it read or change? | Limit |
| Support | Is it still maintained? | Review |
| Test | Does the task work after removal? | Confirm |
Free, no sign-up. UTF-8 text with semicolon-separated columns.
What to check
A store listing is not a guarantee of safety.
An update can change features or requested permissions.
Work or school policies may control some extensions.
Common questions
Should every extension have access on all sites?
No. Compare the requested access with the feature you use, then select a narrower setting when available.
Does disabling delete an extension?
No. Disabling stops it running while leaving it installed; uninstall it if you no longer need it.
Sources and documentation
Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.