'Couldn't Load Plugin' Google Chrome Error

Google Chrome is the most well-used Web browser worldwide undoubtedly. While it receives regular updates and security fixes, it is essential to note that its users can install thousands of 3rd-party plugins, which might not always work reliably. It seems that the 'Couldn't Load Plugin' error is one of the most common issues that Google Chrome users encounter. As the name suggests, this error is likely to be triggered by a buggy plugin, which might be challenging to identify. If you are facing the 'Couldn't Load Plugin' Google Chrome error, then you should give the troubleshooting tips below a try – they might help you identify the source of the problem and fix it as soon as possible:

Apply Google Chrome Updates

Using outdated Google Chrome versions may sometimes make your Web browser incompatible with the latest version of the plugins you use. Thankfully, avoiding this issue is very easy – simply make sure to apply the latest Google Chrome updates right after they become available. Users seeing the 'Couldn't Load Plugin' error should check for pending Chrome updates.

Wipe Out the 'PepperFlash' Directory

PepperFlash is an enhanced version of Adobe Flash Player, but it is being maintained by Google. Not all users have PepperFlash installed, but many of those who use the software appear to encounter the 'Couldn't Load Plugin' at some point. If you are not sure whether PepperFlash is installed, you should check for the presence of its folder by pressing the Windows + R buttons and then typing in %LOCALAPPDATA%. Navigate to the 'Local\Google\Chrome\User Data' directory, and delete the 'PepperFlash' folder if it is there.

Stop Adobe Shockwave Flash

Some users report resolving the 'Couldn't Load Plugin' error by terminating Adobe Shockwave Flash. To do this, you need to launch Google Chrome and go to Settings -> More Tools. There, select the 'Task Manager' option to load Google Chrome's task manager. Select 'Plugin: Shockwave Flash' and press 'End Process.'

Run an SFC Scan

The SFC scan is usually used to fix Windows issues, but it might help the 'Couldn't Load Plugin' Google Chrome Error. To initialize this operation, you need to load the 'Command Prompt' through the Start Menu and then run the command 'sfc /scannow.'