Google Chrome includes a highly capable built-in password manager that conveniently stores your login credentials and autofills them when you visit a website. However, keeping all your passwords locked inside a single web browser can be problematic if you decide to switch to Firefox, or if you decide to upgrade to a dedicated, highly secure password management application like Bitwarden or 1Password.
To facilitate a smooth transition, Chrome allows you to export your entire password vault into a standard, universally readable spreadsheet file.
How to Export Passwords from Chrome
The export process is incredibly quick, but you will need to authenticate your identity to prove you are the owner of the computer before Chrome releases the sensitive data.
- Open Google Chrome on your computer.
- Click the three vertical dots (the menu icon) in the top-right corner of the browser window.
- Hover over Passwords and autofill and select Google Password Manager from the fly-out menu.
- On the left-hand sidebar of the Password Manager screen, click on Settings.
- Look for the section labelled “Export passwords”. Click the blue Download file button.
At this point, Chrome will pause and prompt you for authentication. This is a crucial security step to prevent someone from quickly exporting your data if you step away from your desk.
- Enter your computer’s master login password (or use your fingerprint/Face ID if prompted by your operating system).
- A standard “Save As” window will appear. Choose a location on your hard drive (like your Desktop or Documents folder) and click Save.
Chrome will generate a file named Google Passwords.csv.
Important Security Warning Regarding CSV Files
The file you just downloaded is a Comma Separated Values (.csv) file. It can be opened in Microsoft Excel, Apple Numbers, or Google Sheets. This file is universally compatible with every major third-party password manager, making importing your data seamless.
However, you must treat this file like physical cash. The CSV file is completely unencrypted. If you open it in Excel, you will see your usernames, website URLs, and every single one of your passwords written in plain, visible text.
If a malicious program or a bad actor gains access to this specific file, they instantly possess the keys to your entire digital life. Therefore, you must follow this strict security protocol:
- Use the CSV file to immediately import your credentials into your new browser or password manager.
- Once the import is verified and successful, delete the CSV file from your hard drive immediately.
- Empty your computer’s Trash/Recycle Bin to ensure the file is permanently destroyed. Do not leave the file sitting in your Downloads folder.