uMatrix

Point & click to forbid/allow any class of requests made by your browser. Use it to block scripts, iframes, ads, facebook, etc.
What is uMatrix?
uMatrix is a matrix-based firewall Chrome extension designed to put users in control of their browser's activities. It enables users to decide where their browser connects, what type of data is downloaded, and what is allowed to execute, offering unparalleled privacy control. Out of the box, uMatrix blocks all 3rd-party scripts, which can be adjusted according to user’s preferences. Its filtering engine uses precedence logic to evaluate what is blocked or allowed. Additionally, it provides basic protection against trackers and malware sites.

Extension stats

Users: 90,000+
Rating: 4.71 (808)
Version: 1.4.4 (Last updated: 2021-07-20)
Creation date: 2019-11-02
Risk impact: High risk impact
Risk likelihood: Very low risk likelihood
Manifest version: 2
Permissions:
  • browsingData
  • cookies
  • privacy
  • storage
  • tabs
  • unlimitedStorage
  • webNavigation
  • webRequest
  • webRequestBlocking
  • <all_urls>
Size: 1.46M

Other platforms

uMatrix (v1.4.4)
4.79 (728) 19,862+
Not available on Edge
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Extension summary

Analyze keywords

uMatrix: A point-and-click matrix-based firewall, with many privacy-enhancing tools.

For advanced users.

CHANGE LOG: https://github.com/gorhill/uMatrix/releases

uMatrix put you in full control of where your browser is allowed to connect, what type of data it is allowed to download, and what it is allowed to execute. Nobody else decides for you: You choose. You are in full control of your privacy.

Out of the box, uMatrix works in relax block-all/allow-exceptionally mode, meaning web sites which require 3rd-party scripts are likely to be "broken". With two clicks, uMatrix can be set to work in allow-all/block-exceptionally mode, which generally will not break web sites. See https://github.com/gorhill/httpswitchboard/wiki/How-to-use-HTTP-Switchboard:-Two-opposing-views for more details on this topic.

  • See ALL the remote connections, failed or attempted, depending on whether they were blocked or allowed (you decide).

  • A single-click to whitelist/blacklist one or multiple classes of requests according to the destination and type of data (a blocked request will NEVER leave your browser).

  • Efficient blacklisting: cookies won't leave your browser, JavaScript won't execute, plugins won't play, tracking pixels won't download, etc.

See more

User reviews

These summaries are automatically generated weekly using AI based on recent user reviews. Chrome Web Store does not verify user reviews, so some user reviews may be inaccurate, spammy, or outdated.
Pros
  • Powerful control over webpage elements like JavaScript, CSS, and cookies.
  • Provides enhanced security as a full in-browser firewall.
  • Great for advanced users seeking detailed customization.
  • Effective in blocking unwanted ads and scripts.
  • Can reduce CPU usage by limiting unnecessary scripts.
Cons
  • Not user-friendly; steep learning curve for beginners.
  • No longer actively developed; future compatibility is uncertain.
  • Can block essential webpage elements, leading to poor functionality.
  • Complex interface may confuse users who don't read documentation.
  • Built-in rules can disrupt common websites.
Most mentioned
  • Not actively developed.
  • Powerful but complex.
  • Excellent for security.
  • Gives users control over what loads on pages.
  • Learning curve is steep but rewarding.
Recent reviews
Even though this addon is no longer actively developed, I still use & highly value it on all my browsers. It's a great shame that it will soon stop working. Alternative MV3 script blocker options are sadly lacking by comparison - spent hours looking yesterday & nothing comes close to the functionality of umatrix.
by Mad Catter, 2024-09-03

Best I've ever seen. Too bad it's hard to find on a search engine. Just a blazing fast for Selenium programming.
by Yotic C#, 2024-08-22

by Robert Wabner, 2024-07-29
View all user reviews

Extension safety

Risk impact

uMatrix is risky to use as it requires a number of sensitive permissions that can potentially harm your browser and steal your data. Exercise caution when installing this extension. Review carefully before installing. We recommend that you only install uMatrix if you trust the publisher.

Risk likelihood

uMatrix has earned a good reputation and can be trusted.

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