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KeePassXC Browser Extension Not Connecting

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Workaround available Windows, macOS, Linux Updated November 14, 2026Based on 5 user reportsHow we research

Quick answer

Usually the wrong browser is enabled in KeePassXC, the database is locked, a stale connection exists in the extension, or a sandboxed install (Flatpak, Snap, AppImage) blocks native messaging. Re-select the browser, unlock, and reconnect.

Most likely fix: Enable and match your browser in KeePassXC

How to fix it

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

  1. 1. Enable and match your browser in KeePassXC

    1. Open KeePassXC > Tools > Settings > Browser Integration
    2. Tick Enable browser integration
    3. Tick the browser you use; for a Chromium fork, try the Google Chrome or Chromium option that matches
    4. Restart the browser
    Did this fix it?

  2. 2. Reset the connection in the extension

    1. Unlock the database in KeePassXC
    2. Open the extension settings > Connected Databases
    3. Remove the old connection
    4. Click Connect and approve the new key in KeePassXC
    Did this fix it?

  3. 3. Check how it was installed

    1. Use a regular (non-AppImage, non-Flatpak, non-snapshot) browser and KeePassXC where possible
    2. On Debian-based systems, make sure the full KeePassXC package that includes browser integration is installed
    3. For Flatpak and Snap, see the dedicated guide
    Did this fix it?

Symptoms

The extension icon shows disconnected, 'Key exchange was not successful', or the console shows 'Native messaging host not found'.

Why it happens

  • Browser not enabled (or the wrong variant selected) in KeePassXC's browser integration settings
  • Database is locked or KeePassXC is not running
  • Stale saved connection in the extension
  • Flatpak, Snap or AppImage install of the browser or KeePassXC
  • Native messaging component missing from the Linux package (for example keepassxc-full on Debian)
  • Browser run as a different user

This guide also covers

  • keepassxc browser extension not connecting
  • keepassxc-browser key exchange not successful
  • keepassxc native messaging host not found
  • keepassxc browser not working

Still not working?

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