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Bitwarden Extension Slowing Down Browser

Fixed in latest version Firefox, Chrome Updated October 21, 2026

Quick answer

Browser extension 2026.5.0 caused slow pages and browser freezes for many Firefox users and some Chrome users. Update to the latest release; if it persists, roll back to an earlier version or temporarily rely on the desktop app.

Most likely fix: Update the extension.

Symptoms

Pages load slowly, tabs lag when opening, closing or switching, clicking the Bitwarden icon freezes the browser, or Firefox warns that an extension is slowing it down.

Why it happens

  • Regression in browser extension 2026.5.0
  • Inline autofill menu scanning heavy pages
  • Conflicts with other extensions

How to fix it

Try these in order — the most common fix is first.

  1. 1. Update the extension

    1. Firefox: open about:addons, click the gear icon > Check for Updates
    2. Chrome/Edge: open the extensions page, enable Developer mode and click Update
    3. Users reported 2026.5.1 resolved the slowdown for them

  2. 2. Roll back to an older version (Firefox)

    1. Open the Bitwarden page on addons.mozilla.org
    2. Click 'See all versions' and install the previous release
    3. Disable automatic updates for the add-on until a fix ships

  3. 3. Turn off the inline autofill menu

    1. Open the extension > Settings > Autofill
    2. Uncheck 'Show autofill suggestions on form fields'
    3. Use Ctrl/Cmd+Shift+L to fill instead

  4. 4. Use the desktop app temporarily

    1. Disable the extension
    2. Copy credentials from the Bitwarden desktop app until an update is available

This guide also covers

  • bitwarden slowing down firefox
  • bitwarden extension slow
  • bitwarden chrome extension lag
  • bitwarden freezing browser

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