How to Enable and Disable the Chrome PDF Viewer

What is the Chrome PDF Viewer?

The Chrome PDF Viewer is a built-in feature of the Google Chrome browser that allows you to view PDF documents directly within the browser, without the need for any external software or plugins. This feature is designed to provide a seamless and convenient experience for users who frequently encounter PDF files while browsing the internet.

When enabled, the Chrome PDF Viewer automatically opens PDF files in a tab within the browser, allowing you to read, navigate, search, and print the document without having to download it to your computer. This eliminates the need to switch between different applications and provides a more streamlined and integrated browsing experience.

The Chrome PDF Viewer offers a range of helpful features, including zooming in and out, rotating pages, and viewing multiple pages simultaneously. It also provides a user-friendly interface with intuitive navigation controls, making it easy to access different parts of the document and quickly find the information you need.

This built-in PDF viewer is supported on both Windows and Mac operating systems and is compatible with a wide range of PDF files. It ensures that you can view PDF documents seamlessly, whether you encounter them on websites, receive them as email attachments, or access them from online storage services.

By default, the Chrome PDF Viewer is enabled in Google Chrome, allowing you to quickly open and view PDF files without any additional steps. However, if you prefer to download PDF files and open them with a specific software or if you encounter any issues with the Chrome PDF Viewer, you have the option to disable it and choose a different PDF viewer of your preference.

How to Enable the Chrome PDF Viewer

If you have disabled the Chrome PDF Viewer or if it is not enabled by default on your Google Chrome browser, you can follow these simple steps to enable it:

Step 1: Open Google Chrome

Launch the Google Chrome browser by double-clicking its icon on your desktop or searching for “Google Chrome” in your computer’s applications menu.

Step 2: Access Chrome’s Settings

Click on the three-dot menu icon located at the top right corner of the browser window. From the drop-down menu, select “Settings” to open the Chrome Settings page.

Step 3: Click on “Privacy and security”

In the left-hand menu of the Settings page, click on the “Privacy and security” option to expand its settings.

Step 4: Go to “Site Settings”

Scroll down the page and locate the “Site settings” section. Click on it to access the site-specific settings for your Chrome browser.

Step 5: Find and click on “PDF documents”

Within the Site Settings page, scroll down until you find the “PDF documents” option. Click on it to open the PDF-specific settings.

Step 6: Enable the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option

Within the PDF documents settings, you will see a toggle switch labeled “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome”. Make sure the toggle switch is in the “Off” position to enable the Chrome PDF Viewer.

Once you have enabled the Chrome PDF Viewer, you can close the Settings tab and start enjoying the seamless experience of viewing PDF files directly within your Google Chrome browser.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome

The first step to enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer is to open the Google Chrome browser on your computer. Follow these simple instructions to get started:

Locate the Google Chrome icon on your desktop or in your computer’s applications menu.
Double-click on the Google Chrome icon to launch the browser.
Alternatively, you can search for “Google Chrome” in the Windows start menu or the Mac Finder and click on the appropriate result to open the browser.

Once you have successfully opened Google Chrome, you are ready to move on to the next step in enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer.

It is important to ensure that you have the latest version of Google Chrome installed on your computer to access all the latest features and security improvements. You can check for updates by clicking on the three-dot menu icon at the top right corner of the browser window, selecting “Settings”, then clicking on “About Chrome” in the left-hand menu. If there are any available updates, Chrome will automatically download and install them for you.

By opening Google Chrome, you are one step closer to enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer and enjoying the convenience of viewing PDF files directly within your browser. With the Chrome PDF Viewer, you can save time and eliminate the need for separate PDF viewer software.

Step 2: Access Chrome’s Settings

In order to enable the Chrome PDF Viewer, you need to access the settings page of the Google Chrome browser. Follow these steps to access Chrome’s settings:

Once Google Chrome is open, look for the three-dot menu icon located at the top-right corner of the browser window. This icon represents the Chrome menu.
Click on the menu icon to open a drop-down menu with various options.
From the drop-down menu, select “Settings”. This will take you to the Chrome Settings page.

Alternatively, you can directly open the Settings page by entering “chrome://settings/” in the address bar of the Chrome browser and pressing Enter.

By accessing the Chrome Settings, you gain control over various aspects of your browser’s functionality and behavior. This includes the ability to enable or disable features like the Chrome PDF Viewer, manage your privacy and security settings, customize your browsing experience, and much more.

Once you have successfully accessed the Chrome Settings, you are ready to proceed to the next step and enable the Chrome PDF Viewer. Keep in mind that the steps to enable the Chrome PDF Viewer may vary slightly depending on the version of Chrome you are using, but the general process remains the same.

Accessing Chrome’s settings allows you to tailor your browsing experience to your preferences and optimize the functionality of the browser. Whether you want to enable specific features, modify privacy settings, or personalize your Chrome theme, the Settings page is the central hub for managing your Chrome browser.

Step 3: Click on “Privacy and security”

Once you have accessed the Chrome Settings page, the next step is to navigate to the “Privacy and security” section. Follow these simple instructions:

On the left-hand side of the Chrome Settings page, look for the navigation menu.
Scroll down the menu until you find the “Privacy and security” option.
Click on the “Privacy and security” option to expand the settings related to privacy and security.

By clicking on “Privacy and security”, you gain access to a range of options and settings that allow you to manage your privacy preferences and enhance your security while browsing the internet.

This section of the Chrome Settings page is where you can control various aspects of your browsing experience, including managing cookies, controlling website permissions, enabling Safe Browsing, and more. It allows you to customize your privacy and security settings according to your preferences and needs.

It is worth noting that privacy and security are important factors in today’s digital landscape, and Chrome provides a range of features and settings to protect your data and enhance your online safety. By clicking on “Privacy and security”, you can make informed decisions about the information you share and the level of security you want to maintain while using the Chrome browser.

Once you have successfully clicked on “Privacy and security”, you are one step closer to enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer and customizing your browsing experience. Next, you will proceed to the next step in the process of enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer.

Step 4: Go to “Site Settings”

After accessing the “Privacy and security” section in the Chrome Settings page, the next step is to navigate to the “Site settings” option. Follow these steps to proceed:

On the “Privacy and security” page, scroll down until you locate the “Permissions” section.
Within the “Permissions” section, look for and click on the “Site settings” option.

Clicking on “Site settings” will take you to a new page where you can customize specific settings for individual websites you visit while using Google Chrome. This feature gives you more control over how websites interact with your browser and allows you to manage various permissions and preferences.

Within the “Site settings” page, you can configure settings such as camera and microphone access, notifications, pop-ups, location access, and more. These settings give you the flexibility to choose which websites can access specific features of your browser and enhance your browsing experience.

By going to “Site settings” within the Chrome Settings, you are taking a step towards fine-tuning the behavior and permissions for various websites. This allows you to have a more personalized and secure browsing experience by granting or denying specific permissions on a per-site basis.

Once you have successfully reached the “Site settings” page, you are ready to proceed to the next step and enable the Chrome PDF Viewer. Keep in mind that the steps to enable the Chrome PDF Viewer may vary slightly depending on your Chrome version, but the general process remains the same.

Going to “Site settings” enables you to have more granular control over how websites interact with your browser and provides a higher level of customization in your browsing experience. This empowers you to manage permissions and preferences according to your preferences and privacy requirements.

Step 5: Find and click on “PDF documents”

Once you have accessed the “Site settings” page in the Chrome Settings, the next step is to locate and click on the “PDF documents” option. Follow these simple instructions:

Within the “Site settings” page, scroll down until you find the section labeled “Permissions”.
Within the “Permissions” section, look for the “PDF documents” option.
Click on the “PDF documents” option to open the settings specific to handling PDF files.

Clicking on the “PDF documents” option will allow you to configure the behavior of Chrome when encountering PDF files while browsing. This includes options related to automatically opening PDF files within the Chrome PDF Viewer or downloading them to your computer for external viewing.

By accessing the “PDF documents” settings, you gain more control over how Chrome handles PDF files and can customize your browsing experience according to your preferences and requirements.

Chrome provides several options for handling PDF documents, such as automatically opening them in the browser, downloading them, or even using external software for viewing. By finding and clicking on the “PDF documents” option, you can choose the appropriate settings to suit your needs.

Once you have successfully found and clicked on “PDF documents”, you are one step closer to enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer and optimizing the way Chrome handles PDF files. Next, you will proceed to the next step in the process of enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer.

Accessing the “PDF documents” settings allows you to define how Chrome behaves when encountering PDF files, ensuring a personalized and efficient experience while browsing the internet. With the flexibility to choose the most suitable option, you can enhance your productivity and streamline your PDF viewing process.

Step 6: Enable the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option

The final step in enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer is to enable the option to “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome”. Follow these simple instructions:

Within the “PDF documents” settings, locate the toggle switch labeled “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome”.
Make sure the toggle switch is in the “On” position to enable the Chrome PDF Viewer.

Enabling this option ensures that whenever you click on a PDF file while browsing the internet, Chrome will download the file to your computer instead of automatically opening it within the browser. This allows you to have more control over how and when you view PDF files.

By enabling the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option, you can choose to open the downloaded PDF files with your preferred external PDF viewer or with the Chrome PDF Viewer itself. This gives you the flexibility to choose the most suitable method for viewing PDF files.

Keep in mind that if you prefer to automatically open PDF files within the Chrome PDF Viewer, you can leave the toggle switch in the “Off” position. This will allow Chrome to open PDF files directly within the browser tab, providing a seamless viewing experience.

Once you have successfully enabled the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option, you have completed the process of enabling the Chrome PDF Viewer. Your Chrome browser will now handle PDF files according to the settings you have chosen, allowing you to view PDF documents efficiently and conveniently.

Enabling this option provides you with more control over your PDF viewing experience, ensuring that you can handle PDF files in a way that best suits your preferences and workflow. Whether you decide to download PDF files or open them directly within the Chrome browser, the Chrome PDF Viewer offers a seamless and convenient solution for browsing PDF documents.

How to Disable the Chrome PDF Viewer

If you prefer to use a different PDF viewer or encounter any issues with the Chrome PDF Viewer, you have the option to disable it. Disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer allows you to choose an external software or plugin to handle PDF files. Here’s how to disable the Chrome PDF Viewer:

Step 1: Open Google Chrome

Launch the Google Chrome browser by double-clicking its icon on your desktop or searching for “Google Chrome” in your computer’s applications menu.

Step 2: Access Chrome’s Settings

Click on the three-dot menu icon located at the top right corner of the browser window. From the drop-down menu, select “Settings” to open the Chrome Settings page.

Step 3: Click on “Privacy and security”

In the left-hand menu of the Settings page, click on the “Privacy and security” option to expand its settings.

Step 4: Go to “Site Settings”

Scroll down the page until you find the “Site settings” section. Click on it to access the site-specific settings for your Chrome browser.

Step 5: Find and click on “PDF documents”

Within the Site Settings page, scroll down until you find the “PDF documents” option. Click on it to open the PDF-specific settings.

Step 6: Disable the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option

Once you have disabled the Chrome PDF Viewer, PDF files will no longer be automatically opened within the Chrome browser. Instead, they will be downloaded to your computer, allowing you to open them with your preferred PDF viewer or software.

Disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer provides you with the flexibility to choose a PDF viewer that best suits your needs or preferences. Whether you prefer to use a standalone PDF viewer or a browser extension, disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer enables you to have more control over how PDF files are handled within the Chrome browser.

Step 1: Open Google Chrome

The first step to disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer is to open the Google Chrome browser on your computer. Here’s how you can do it:

Locate the Google Chrome icon on your desktop or in your computer’s applications menu.
Double-click on the Google Chrome icon to launch the browser.
Alternatively, you can search for “Google Chrome” in the Windows start menu or the Mac Finder and click on the appropriate result to open the browser.

Once you have successfully opened Google Chrome, you are ready to proceed with disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer.

Opening Google Chrome is the first step towards disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer and choosing an alternative PDF viewer that better suits your needs. With a wide range of PDF viewers available, you can customize your PDF viewing experience according to your preferences.

Step 2: Access Chrome’s Settings

To disable the Chrome PDF Viewer, you need to access the settings page of the Google Chrome browser. Follow these steps to access Chrome’s settings:

Once Google Chrome is open, locate the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner of the browser window. This icon represents the Chrome menu.
Click on the menu icon to open a drop-down menu with various options.
From the drop-down menu, select “Settings”. This will take you to the Chrome Settings page.

Alternatively, you can directly open the Settings page by entering “chrome://settings/” in the address bar of the Chrome browser and pressing Enter.

Accessing Chrome’s settings provides you with control over various aspects of the browser’s functionality and behavior. From here, you can customize your browsing experience, manage extensions, adjust privacy settings, and more.

The Chrome Settings page is organized into different sections for easy navigation. These sections cover a wide range of preferences and options, allowing you to tailor your browsing experience to your liking.

By accessing Chrome’s settings, you can explore the different features and configurations available. This gives you the ability to personalize your browsing experience and make adjustments according to your needs and preferences.

Once you have successfully accessed Chrome’s settings, you are ready to proceed to the next step in disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer. Keep in mind that the steps may vary slightly depending on your version of Chrome, but the general process remains the same.

Accessing Chrome’s settings empowers you to take control of your browsing experience and optimize your browser’s functionality to suit your preferences.

Step 3: Click on “Privacy and security”

After accessing the Chrome Settings page, the next step is to click on the “Privacy and security” option. Follow these instructions to proceed:

On the left-hand side of the Chrome Settings page, you will see a navigation menu. Scroll down until you find the “Privacy and security” option.
Click on the “Privacy and security” option to expand the settings related to privacy and security.

By clicking on “Privacy and security”, you will gain access to various settings that allow you to manage your browsing privacy and enhance your online security while using Google Chrome.

This section of the Chrome Settings page offers a range of options and configurations to control how Chrome handles your personal information, manages website permissions, and protects you from online threats.

Clicking on “Privacy and security” is crucial as it allows you to customize and fine-tune the privacy and security settings to align with your preferences and requirements. From managing cookies and site data to controlling how sites access your camera and microphone, this section offers granular control over your browsing privacy.

It is worth noting that protecting your privacy and enhancing security is more important than ever in today’s digital age. By clicking on “Privacy and security” in the Chrome Settings, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your personal information and ensure a secure browsing experience.

Once you have successfully clicked on “Privacy and security”, you are ready to proceed to the next step in disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer. Keep in mind that the steps to disable the Chrome PDF Viewer may vary slightly depending on your Chrome version, but the general process remains the same.

Clicking on “Privacy and security” is an essential step to access all the necessary settings and configurations related to your browsing privacy and security. It empowers you to make informed decisions and take control of your online safety.

Step 4: Go to “Site Settings”

After clicking on the “Privacy and security” option in the Chrome Settings page, the next step is to navigate to the “Site Settings” section. Follow these simple instructions:

Within the expanded “Privacy and security” settings, scroll down until you find the “Permissions” section.
Within the “Permissions” section, locate and click on the “Site Settings” option.

By clicking on “Site Settings”, you will be directed to a new page where you can customize various settings for individual websites you visit while using Google Chrome. This feature provides you with comprehensive control over how websites interact with your browser.

Within the “Site Settings” page, you can configure specific permissions for websites, such as camera access, microphone access, notifications, location access, and more. This allows for a more personalized and tailored browsing experience.

By going to the “Site Settings” section, you have the ability to set specific preferences for each website you visit. This level of customization ensures that your browsing experience aligns with your preferences and requirements.

By default, Chrome offers sensible and secure defaults for website settings. However, visiting the Site Settings section allows you to make changes that enhance your browsing experience and privacy. You can fine-tune how Chrome interacts with websites, granting or denying permissions based on your preferences.

Once you have successfully reached the “Site Settings” page, you are ready to proceed to the next step in disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer. Remember that the steps to disable the Chrome PDF Viewer may vary slightly depending on your version of Chrome, but the general process remains the same.

Accessing the “Site Settings” section empowers you to have more control over how websites behave and interact with your browser. This customization feature ensures a personalized and tailored browsing experience based on your individual preferences.

Step 5: Find and click on “PDF documents”

After navigating to the “Site Settings” page in the Chrome browser, the next step is to locate and click on the “PDF documents” option. Follow these instructions to proceed:

Within the “Site Settings” page, scroll down until you find the “Permissions” section.
Within the “Permissions” section, look for the “PDF documents” option.
Click on the “PDF documents” option to access the specific settings related to handling PDF files.

By finding and clicking on the “PDF documents” option, you can customize the behavior of Chrome when encountering PDF files while browsing. This includes options related to automatically opening PDF files within the browser or downloading them to your computer for external viewing.

Clicking on the “PDF documents” option allows you to configure how Chrome handles PDF files, providing you with greater control over your browsing experience.

Within the “PDF documents” settings, you have the opportunity to choose how Chrome handles PDF files. You can select options such as automatically opening PDF files in Chrome, downloading PDF files, or even using an external PDF viewer or plugin to handle PDF files. By exploring these settings, you can determine the most suitable option for your needs and preferences.

Once you have successfully found and clicked on “PDF documents”, you are one step closer to disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer and adjusting how Chrome handles PDF files. Your choice will determine whether PDF files are automatically opened within the browser or downloaded to your computer.

Locating and clicking on “PDF documents” provides you with the ability to define how Chrome behaves when encountering PDF files, ensuring a personalized and efficient browsing experience. With the flexibility to choose how PDF files are handled, you can optimize your workflow and enhance your productivity.

Step 6: Disable the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option

The final step in disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer is to disable the option to “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome”. Here’s how you can do it:

Within the “PDF documents” settings, locate the toggle switch labeled “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome”.
Make sure the toggle switch is in the “Off” position to disable the Chrome PDF Viewer.

Disabling this option ensures that when you click on a PDF file while browsing, Chrome will automatically open the file within the browser instead of downloading it to your computer.

By disabling the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option, you can enjoy the convenience of viewing PDF files directly within the browser tab. This allows for a more seamless and integrated browsing experience.

Keep in mind that if you prefer to download PDF files rather than opening them within the browser, you can leave the toggle switch in the “On” position. This will allow Chrome to download PDF files to your computer instead of automatically opening them.

Once you have successfully disabled the “Download PDF files instead of automatically opening them in Chrome” option, you have completed the process of disabling the Chrome PDF Viewer. Chrome will now handle PDF files based on the settings you have chosen.

Disabling this option enables you to have more control over how PDF files are handled within the Chrome browser. Whether you decide to open PDF files directly within the browser or use external software, the choice is yours.

With the Chrome PDF Viewer disabled, you can explore alternative PDF viewing options that better suit your preferences and workflow. This customization allows for a more personalized and tailored browsing experience when it comes to dealing with PDF files.