Have you encountered this error message: “Rats! WebGL hit a snag.” This problem is usually encountered by people who use heavy scripts. Very common with Chrome browsers.
However, this does not in any way erase the fact that Chrome browser is one of the best browsers anyone can use, so there is actually no need to run off, cause there is a way to fix this problem and go ahead to enjoy your browser.
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What is WebGL hit a snag?
Most times when this error pops up, the first thing that usually comes to mind is that you have been attacked by a virus, but that is not the case. This has nothing to do with a virus or any other malware attack, it does not in any way signify any breach in the security of your computer. This problem is very common with chrome browser. It happens when you are trying to use the browser to access a web graphics library or WebGL content that is not compatible with the browser or if there is an error with the WebGL.
WebGL is a short form for Web Graphics Library. It is a sort of JavaScript API that aids compatible web browsers to provide 2D and 3D graphics without the use of plugins and any other add-ons.
Most try to solve this problem by refreshing the page they are on or even restarting their browser or the computer as a whole, sorry to disappoint you, but none of these actions will solve the problem. However, getting this error message will not stop the browser, but it can very annoying and stressful work with your computer while this error message keeps popping up. Nevertheless, here is a sure and easy way to fix this problem.
How to Fix this error in Chrome
Method 1: Disable Hardware Accelerated Graphics in Chrome
The common cause of this problem is always associated with the hardware accelerated graphics, so you might want to make it your first point of call when trying to deal with this issue. Here are the steps to do this:
- Click on the three dots on the right-hand corner of your browser. This action will bring out a drop-down menu.
- On the drop-down menu list, click on settings
- Or you can do it the shortcut way by typing chrome://settings on a new tap and enter
- Click on the “Show Advanced Settings” option
- Down below under the system section, you will see “Use Hardware Acceleration whenever possible” option, uncheck it.
- Restart the browser. This should fix the problem, but if it doesn’t, then try the next method.
Method 2: Deactivate the WebGL In Chrome
Note: This method might make you encounter some hitches when trying to watch online video or browsing heavy websites.
- Open a new search bar or you can call it a new tap and type in chrome://flags.
- The above action will lead you to Disable WebGL option.
- Enable ” Disable WebGL” option.
- Restart your browser to effect the changes you just made.
Method 3: Reset your browser
If after trying the two steps and the problem still persist, you might also want to try resetting your chrome browser. Here is how to do it:
- Click on the three dots on the right-hand corner of your browser, and follow the drop-down menu.
- Click on settings
- Scroll down and click on Advanced setting
- Down below you will see a section named “Reset and clean up” click on Restore settings to their original defaults.
- You will see a pop-up, click on “Reset Settings”
- Restart your browser to effect the changes
Note: This process will This will reset your startup page, a new tab page, search engine, and pinned tabs. It will also disable all extensions and clear temporary data like cookies. Nevertheless, bookmarks, history, and saved passwords will not be affected
Method 4: Search The Log Files For Other Issues
When you’ve tried all these methods and none seem to resolve this problem, then its time to check to run a diagnosis to see if potential issues associated with this error. You do this by searching the log files. Here is how to do it:
- Open a new search bar and type in chrome://GPU
- Scroll down and you find a heading titled “Problems Detected”. You see those warnings highlighted with red? therein lies the reason for the malfunctioning of the WebGL libraries.
- Fix the error
How to Fix Webgl Hit a Snag error in Android
If you are using chrome on your Android device, you might still encounter this same problem. Fixing it follow a somehow similar procedure.
Method 1: Clearing the cache
- Click on the three dots on the right-hand corner of your browser, and follow the drop-down menu.
- Click on settings
- Click on Advanced Setting
- Click on clear browsing data
- Uncheck browsing history if you don’t want to wipe it off and also uncheck cookies and site data.
- Click on Clear Data.
There are so many other ways one can fix this problem in Android, but the above step is sure to fix it in Android. You can also try updating your browser from Google play store or you can uninstall the app and install it back. I’m sure it will be fine.
Conclusion
Getting this error while browsing online can be so inconveniencing and most time users don’t know what to do, but with these steps, you are sure to do it on your own without seeking for any help. However to always stay safe and avoid the inconveniences associated with this, always make sure your browser, drivers, Windows, and antivirus are updated to the latest versions.
