How to Enable Background Mode in Google Chrome

This article explains how to enable or disable background mode, allowing apps to run in the background even when Google Chrome is closed.

Google Chrome is a web browser developed by Google that runs on multiple platforms. It shares the same codebase as Microsoft Edge, making the two browsers nearly identical in their basic functionalities.

When using the Google Chrome browser, you can utilize the BackgroundModeEnabled policy to enable or disable background mode, which keeps running when the last browser window is closed, allowing background apps and the browsing session to remain active.

The following steps will help enable or disable background mode in Google Chrome.

Enable/Disable Background Mode in Chrome

Users can enable or disable background mode in Chrome using the BackgroundModeEnabled policy.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open the Google Chrome browser.

Then, click on the Customize and Control (3 vertical dots button) in the top right corner and select Settings.

Next, click the “System” link on the left menu on the Settings page.

On the right, click the tile labeled “Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed.” Then, toggle the button On or Off to enable or disable it.

You can close the Chrome settings page when finished.

Enable / Disable Background Mode in Chrome using the Registry

Another way to enable or disable background mode in Chrome is to use the Windows Registry Editor.

First, open the Windows Registry and navigate to the folder key path below.

Remember to back up your registry before making any changes, or create a System Restore point as a precaution.

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Google\Chrome

In the registry key paths, if you do not see Google, right-click on the Policies key and create a new key named Google. Do the same for Chrome if it is not listed.

Once there, right-click Chrome > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name the new DWORD BackgroundModeEnabled.

Double-click and open the BackgroundModeEnabled name and set the value to 0 to disable background mode in Chrome.

To enable it for all users, set the value to 1.

Delete the “BackgroundModeEnabled” name created above to restore the default behavior and allow users to manage background mode in the UI.

BackgroundModeEnabled

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• The BackgroundModeEnabled policy in Google Chrome allows users to manage whether apps continue to run in the background after the browser is closed.
• Users can easily enable or disable the background mode through the Chrome settings or the Windows Registry.
• It’s recommended to back up the registry or create a System Restore point before making changes.
• Adjusting these settings can help optimize system performance and resource management based on user preferences.
• For more detailed guidance, refer to the Chrome Enterprise Policy documentation.