6 Ways to Fix Google Chrome Crashes or Freezes When Uploading Files

Quick Fixes

• Disable graphics acceleration in Google Chrome under Settings > System.
• Remove installed Google Chrome extensions from the three-dot menu > Extensions > Manage Extensions.

Common Fixes

• Close other tabs and background applications: It will free up system resources, saving Google Chrome from a potential crash.
• Upload files in the Incognito mode: An installed browser extension might prevent the upload. Open the incognito mode using the Ctrl + Shift + N shortcut and retry uploading.
• Check the file size: Ensure the file you’re trying to upload isn’t too large. Google Chrome has a 4GB file size limitation per upload.
• Update or reinstall Google Chrome: Click on the three-dot menu at the top right, select Help, and open About Google Chrome. Wait for Chrome to automatically install new updates. Alternatively, uninstall the app and reinstall it.

Fix 1: Disable Graphics Acceleration

Google Chrome’s graphic acceleration feature is a common reason behind most crashes and screen freezing. Disable it manually from the browser settings and retry uploading your file.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome > select the three-dot menu at the top right > click Settings.

Step 2: Expand System from the left sidebar and toggle off Use graphics acceleration when available.

Fix 2: Turn off the Energy Saver Mode

An active energy saver mode can limit background activity, interrupting the file upload process on Google Chrome. Disable it manually to avoid random crashes while uploading files.

Open Google Chrome settings (check the above steps) > select Performance from the left sidebar > toggle off Energy Saver.

Fix 3: Disable Chrome Extensions

If Google Chrome successfully uploads a file in incognito mode, one of your installed extensions is causing the browser to crash. Review your installed extensions and remove unnecessary ones.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome > click on the vertical three-dot menu at the top-right > select Extensions > open Manage Extensions.

Step 2: Click Remove to delete an installed extension. Alternatively, toggle it off to disable it.

Fix 4: Clear Google Chrome Cache and Cookies

Corrupt cache and cookies can often crash or freeze the browser while trying to upload files. To clear them, go to Google Chrome settings.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome settings > select Privacy and security from the left sidebar > click Clear browsing data.

Step 2: Check the box for Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data > click on Clear data.

Fix 5: Delete ‘Local State’ File From Chrome User Data

The Local State file in the Chrome User Data contains crucial browser configurations. If corrupted, Google Chrome may crash or freeze when uploading files. Reset it manually by deleting the file.

Note: Close Google Chrome before deleting its Local State file.

Step 1: Press the Windows + R shortcut to open the Run dialog > copy-paste the below path > press Enter.

%LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\Chrome\User Data

Step 2: Select the Local State file and press Delete on your keyboard to remove it. Open Google Chrome > retry uploading your desired file.

Fix 6: Reset Google Chrome

Lastly, if nothing works, reset the Google Chrome browser to restore normalcy.

Note: Resetting Google Chrome will delete cookies and temporary site data, disable extensions, and reset all Chrome settings and shortcuts.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome settings > select Reset settings from the left sidebar > click on Restore settings to their original defaults.

Step 2: Click Reset settings to confirm your action.