File extension .CRX
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Google Chrome Extension Installer File Format | Plugin Files |
The CRX file extension is used to identify .CRX files, web browser add-on packages for Google Chrome. This file format was first introduced by Google in 2009 and is used mainly in Chrome to personalize the users’ experience with the browser. The CRX package file contains images, HTML documents, JavaScript, as well as other information necessary for the browser to perform properly.
A CRX file can be opened directly from the browser by clicking on it and then going through the installation process of the add-on. In order to install the add-on a user needs to confirm all permissions required by the extension. Once the installation is confirmed, the information stored in the file is automatically added to Chrome. Similar file extensions are EXT,.XPI,.RXE,.DBF.
How to Open or Create CRX Files
The only way to create a CRX file is by using the Chrome Developer Dashboard, which was designed to help developers create and publish their own web-based applications and extensions for Chrome. After creating an application using this dashboard, developers can export an application package into a .CRX file from where it can be installed using a double-click. The CRX package can also be used for uninstalling and updating existing add-ons.
Device Compatibility
CRX files are currently compatible only with Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers such as Opera, Vivaldi or Microsoft Edge. However, some tools do exist that are able to convert these files into a format compatible with other browsers such as Mozilla Firefox ( .XPI) or Internet Explorer ( .RXE) extensions.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .CRX) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .CRX extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .CRX file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .CRX extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .CRX extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .CRX file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .CRX file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .CRX file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .CRX file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .CRX file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines
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Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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