Why does Claude say the browser extension isn't connected?

This usually occurs because of a conflict between the native messaging hosts of Claude Code CLI and the Claude desktop app, which use incompatible socket formats and locations.

Do I need to restart my apps after applying a fix?

Yes. Because MCP connects at startup, you must ensure the correct configuration is active, then restart both Google Chrome and your Claude Code session.

Can I use Claude Code and Claude.app Cowork simultaneously?

No, both applications attempt to register native messaging configs in Chrome. You must select one environment and disable the other to ensure the correct socket is created.

Is this troubleshooting guide compatible with Windows or Linux?

Currently, this skill specifically targets macOS-specific paths (~/Library/Application Support/) and tools (osascript) and is not intended for Windows or Linux users.

Claude in Chrome Troubleshooting

Name: Claude in Chrome Troubleshooting
Author: trailofbits

bytrailofbits

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2,992

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Browser Automation

Diagnoses and resolves connectivity conflicts between the Claude browser extension, Claude Code CLI, and the Claude desktop application.

This skill provides comprehensive troubleshooting guidance for resolving 'Browser extension is not connected' errors and erratic behavior in Claude's Chrome MCP tools. It specifically addresses the configuration conflicts that arise when switching between Claude Code CLI and the Claude desktop app (Cowork) on macOS, offering technical deep dives into native messaging hosts, socket path mismatches, and version-specific wrapper issues to restore reliable browser automation.

Key Features

01Dynamic version wrapper configuration for persistent updates

02Deep-dive diagnostic commands for socket and process verification

03Automated shell scripts for toggling native messaging hosts

04Conflict detection between Claude.app and Claude Code CLI

052,992 GitHub stars

06Step-by-step full reset procedures for macOS environments

Use Cases

01Switching between CLI-based automation and Claude.app Cowork features

02Fixing erratic timeouts and socket mismatches in browser tools

03Resolving 'Browser extension is not connected' errors in Claude Code

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add trailofbits/skills claude-in-chrome-troubleshooting

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT

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