ctrlw
A no-op extension. Useful for killing the dreaded Ctrl-W hotkey!
What is ctrlw?
ctrlw is a unique Chrome extension that counteracts the often bothersome Ctrl-W hotkey, which usually closes tabs. This hotkey frequently disrupts browsing by closing tabs when the user intends to delete a word. To solve this problem, 'ctrlw' remaps this hotkey to essentially do nothing, thereby preventing unintended tab closure. An additional command allows you to close the current tab using Alt-W. ctrlw effectively turns a commonly problematic hotkey into an optional feature, lifting an unintentional barrier to efficient web browsing.
Stats
By:
Sam Lazarus
Rating:
3.82
(17)
Creation date:
2018-08-01
Risk impact:
Very low risk impact
Risk likelihood:
Low risk likelihood
Manifest version:
2
Size:
19.80K
Email:
sa*****@turtlecodeapps.com
Stats date:
Other platforms
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Not available on Edge
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Summary
I wrote this extension after the thousandth time I had closed a tab while meaning to delete a word. If you are tired of Chrome hijacking your muscle memory on ^W, this extension is for you! It provides two commands, one which does nothing, and one which closes the current tab. If you map the former to Ctrl-W, and the latter to Alt-W, you will never again mistakenly close a tab!
A future version may include the expected Ctrl-W functionality, but don't hold your breath.
User reviews
User reviews summary
Pros
- Prevents accidental closing of tabs with Ctrl+W
- Works perfectly once shortcuts are configured
- Essential for playing browser-based games to avoid tab closure
Cons
- Requires manual configuration on chrome://extensions/shortcuts
- Does not work on some versions of Chrome or with certain operating systems
- No option to customize for specific URLs or domains
Most mentioned
- Need to set up the shortcut manually in the extensions menu
- Not working for some users with different Chrome versions or operating systems
- Effectiveness for gaming and preventing accidental tab closures
Recent reviews
Thank you so much.
To save other writers 30 seconds, please add instructions on how to bind keys to the extensions functions.
Works perfectly for me on ChromeOS, just had to change the keyboard shortcut from the extensions menu as other reviewers have mentioned.
working in 122.0.6261.6 set first : chrome://extensions/shortcuts
Safety
Risk impact
ctrlw is safe to use. It does not request any sensitive permissions.
Risk likelihood
ctrlw has earned a fairly good reputation and likely can be trusted.
Upgrade to see risk analysis details
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