The Chrome Plugin Shockwave Flash Broker offers a solution to a common problem many Chrome users face when dealing with Adobe Flash Player.
Introduction to Shockwave Flash Plugin
The Shockwave Flash plugin, also known as Adobe Flash player, is a multimedia software platform used to stream and view animations, graphics, and videos on web browsers. The plugin is essential to run certain websites that use Flash technology, including online games, animated websites, and video streaming platforms.
The plugin has been supported by various browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Internet Explorer, among others. However, with the rise of HTML5 technology, the use of Flash has declined, and most browsers have discontinued support for the plugin.
Despite its decline in popularity, some websites still require the Shockwave Flash plugin to run their content. Therefore, users may need to install the plugin manually or use a Chrome plugin Shockwave Flash broker to enable Flash content on their Chrome browser.
Problems Caused by Shockwave Flash Broker
- Disable Shockwave Flash Broker in Google Chrome
- Open Google Chrome and click on the three dots in the upper right-hand corner
- Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on “Advanced”
- Select “Content settings” under the “Privacy and security” section
- Click on “Flash”
- Toggle the switch next to “Ask first (recommended)” to the off position
- Update Shockwave Flash Player
- Open Google Chrome and type “chrome://components” in the address bar
- Scroll down to “Adobe Flash Player” and click on “Check for update”
- If an update is available, click on “Update”
- Disable Shockwave Flash Player in Task Manager
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc
- Scroll down and look for “Shockwave Flash Player”
- Select “Shockwave Flash Player” and click on “End task”
- Uninstall and Reinstall Google Chrome
- Go to the Windows Start menu and select “Control Panel”
- Click on “Programs” and then “Programs and Features”
- Find “Google Chrome” in the list and click on “Uninstall”
- Download the latest version of Google Chrome from the official website and install it
Reasons Behind Shockwave Flash Plugin Crashes
There are several reasons why the Shockwave Flash Plugin may crash while using it on Chrome. One common reason is outdated versions of the plugin or the browser itself. Incompatibility issues with other plugins or software can also cause the Shockwave Flash Plugin to crash. In addition, heavy multimedia content or multiple tabs running simultaneously can overload the plugin, causing it to crash. Malware or viruses can also cause plugin crashes. Issues with the computer’s hardware or software can also lead to Shockwave Flash Plugin crashes. To prevent these crashes, users should make sure their browser, plugins, and software are up-to-date, avoid overloading the plugin with too much content, and take measures to protect their computer from malware and viruses.
// Check if Shockwave Flash is installed
chrome.runtime.sendMessage({type: "isFlashInstalled"}, function(response) {
if (response.isInstalled) {
// Display options for enabling, disabling, and updating Shockwave Flash
chrome.runtime.sendMessage({type: "showFlashOptions"});
} else {
// Display a message indicating that Shockwave Flash is not installed
chrome.runtime.sendMessage({type: "showFlashNotInstalledMessage"});
}
});
// Check for updates to Shockwave Flash
chrome.runtime.onMessage.addListener(function(request, sender, sendResponse) {
if (request.type === "checkForFlashUpdate") {
// Check for updates and display a notification if a new version is available
var currentVersion = chrome.runtime.getManifest().version;
var latestVersion = getLatestFlashVersion();
if (latestVersion > currentVersion) {
chrome.notifications.create({
type: "basic",
iconUrl: "icon.png",
title: "New version of Shockwave Flash available",
message: "Click here to update to the latest version"
});
}
}
});
function getLatestFlashVersion() {
// Use an API to check for the latest version of Shockwave Flash
// Return the version number as a string (e.g. "32.0.0.465")
}
This code assumes that the plugin has access to an API for checking the latest version of Shockwave Flash. It also uses the Chrome notifications API to display a message when a new version is available. The code could be extended to include additional functionality as needed.
How to Troubleshoot Shockwave Flash Plugin?
Problem | Solution |
---|---|
Shockwave Flash plugin crashes frequently | Update the plugin to the latest version |
Plugin not working at all | Disable the plugin and enable it again |
Browser freezes or crashes when plugin is enabled | Try running the browser in safe mode or with extensions disabled |
Plugin conflicts with other plugins or software | Uninstall conflicting plugins or software, and reinstall the Shockwave Flash plugin |
Plugin not supported on the current operating system | Upgrade the operating system or use a different browser that supports the plugin |
Alternative Solutions to Shockwave Flash Plugin
Alternative solutions to the Shockwave Flash Plugin can be found in some modern browsers. For example, Google Chrome has replaced the Shockwave Flash Plugin with a built-in version of Flash called Pepper Flash. Unlike the Shockwave Flash Plugin, Pepper Flash is updated automatically with Chrome updates. Another solution is to switch to a browser that is not dependent on the Shockwave Flash Plugin, such as HTML5, which is supported by most modern browsers. Alternatively, disabling the Shockwave Flash Plugin can also be an option, although this may limit access to certain online content that requires the plugin.
Conclusion: Tips for Effective Use of Shockwave Flash Plugin
- Keep your plugin up-to-date. Always make sure you have the latest version of the Shockwave Flash plugin installed.
- Disable the plugin when not in use. If you’re not using Flash content, it’s best to disable the plugin to conserve system resources.
- Use Flashblock or similar extensions. These extensions can help block Flash content from automatically loading, which can improve performance and security.
- Limit your use of Flash content. While Flash can be useful for certain types of content, it can also be resource-intensive. Try to limit your use of Flash and consider alternative solutions when possible.
- Be cautious of Flash content from unknown sources. Flash content from unknown sources can be a security risk. Only download and use Flash content from trusted sources.

Jimmie Bourn is a skilled technology writer for helptechportal.com, focusing on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Holding a degree in Computer Science, Jimmie is fascinated by the potential of AI to transform industries and improve lives. In his free time, Jimmie enjoys exploring the latest advancements in robotics and playing strategy board games.