Web Developer Extension: A Toolbar of Classic Web Dev Tools
Web Developer · for Windows, macOS and Linux
Developer: Chris Pederick (opens in a new tab)
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
The download link points to the program’s official source; the file is not hosted on this site. Link address: chromewebstore.google.com
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Web Developer is a free extension by Chris Pederick that adds a toolbar button with a wide range of web developer tools. It is available for Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Opera.
Long before browsers had today’s built-in developer tools, the Web Developer toolbar was a favorite among front-end developers. The Chrome version is the official port of the original Firefox extension, and it still puts many quick checks one click away.
Typical uses
The extension groups its tools into menus behind a single toolbar button. Among the features its developer documents:
- Disable features: Turn off JavaScript and other features to test how a page behaves without them, and reset them afterwards with Reset Disable Features under the Disable tab.
- Cookies: View, add and clear cookies, including clearing session cookies.
- CSS: Edit a page’s CSS and see the result immediately.
- Information: Display element information, image file sizes and a topographic view of the page’s layout.
- Validators: Send a page to third-party validation services.
Permissions
Chrome warns that the extension can read data on all websites. The developer’s FAQ explains that this is the standard message for extensions with this level of access, and that no personal data is sent to third parties except when you use third-party features such as validators. One limitation: Chrome’s APIs don’t allow it to add or edit cookies on localhost.
Installing it
- Click Download to open Web Developer on the Chrome Web Store.
- Add it to Chrome and pin the gear-shaped icon.
- Click it on any page and explore the tabs.
Help and full release notes are on chrispederick.com. Pair it with JSON Formatter for API work and Wappalyzer to see a site’s stack.
Pros
- Many quick checks behind one button
- Live CSS editing and JavaScript toggling
- Available for several browsers
Cons
- Overlaps with Chrome’s built-in DevTools
- Cannot edit cookies on localhost
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Web Developer edit cookies on localhost?
No. According to the developer, Chrome’s APIs do not allow extensions to add or edit cookies on the localhost domain.
Which browsers is Web Developer available for?
Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Opera, on any platform those browsers support, including Windows, macOS and Linux.
Web DeveloperFree
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