How to Enable Extension Developer Mode in Edge, Chrome, Firefox, Opera

If you’re an extension developer looking to create a custom browser extension, enabling Developer Mode in your preferred browser is the essential first step. In this article, I have shared step-by-step instructions on how you can enable Extension Developer Mode in Edge, Chrome, Firefox, and Opera browsers.

This developer mode allows you to load, debug, and test experimental extensions in Chrome, Edge, or other browsers. However, if you’re not a developer but want to install third-party browser extensions, you’ll need to enable Developer Mode to upload them.

#1. On Microsoft Edge

Edge is Microsoft’s official browser, which comes pre-installed with the Windows OS. However, it can also be downloaded and used on other operating systems. If you want to load an experimental extension on Microsoft Edge, you will first need to activate developer mode.

To turn on extension developer mode on edge:

1. Launch Microsoft Edge Browser in Your PC.
2. Type edge://extensions in the Address Bar and Hit Enter.
   

   

3. At the Left Menu Pane, Simply Turn On the ‘Developer Mode’ Toggle.
   

   

Also read: How to Disable Microsoft Edge Tabs in Alt+Tab on Windows 11

#2. On Google Chrome

Chrome is Google’s official web browser, which is currently available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. The Google Chrome browser also includes a built-in extension developer mode, though it is disabled by default. You can enable it using the steps mentioned below.

To turn on extension’s developer mode in chrome:

1. Open Chrome Browser and Go to chrome://extensions.
   

   

2. Turn On the Developer Mode Toggle at the Top Right Corner.
   

   

#3. On Firefox & Zen

Firefox is a very popular browser owned by Mozilla. On the other hand, the Zen browser is also based on the Firefox engine. This means that if you use either of these browsers, the process for enabling developer mode for extensions is exactly the same.

To turn on extension developer mode on firefox or zen browser:

1. Launch the Firefox or Zen Browser on Your Computer.
2. Type about:addons in the Address Bar and Hit Enter.
   

   

3. Select Extensions Section and Click on Gear (⚙️) Icon Next to ‘Manage Your Extensions’ and Enable the “Debug Add-ons” Option.
   

   

4. Now, You Can Load Temporary Add-on (if needed).

Also read: How to Change URL Copy and Paste Format in Microsoft Edge

#4. On Opera (GX)

If you use the Opera or Opera GX browser, enabling Developer Mode for extensions is very simple in both browsers, and the steps are also similar. Before enabling it, make sure your browser is updated to the latest version.

To turn on extensions developer mode on opera (gx):

1. Launch Opera or Opera GX on Your Laptop or PC.
2. Now, Go to opera://extensions.
   

   

3. Simply, Turn On the ‘Developer Mode’ Toggle Next to Extensions.
   

   

That’s all! You’re done…

Also read: Rotate Google Maps on Your PC or Laptop

I hope you found this article helpful and learned how to enable extension developer mode in Edge, Chrome, Firefox, and Opera. If you are facing any issues, please let us know by commenting below. Don’t forget to share this article.