How To

How to use the JSON Viewer Chrome Extension in 3 steps

June 21, 2022
Updated: July 2, 2025 at 3:38 AM

How to use the JSON Viewer Chrome Extension in 3 steps

JSON, or JavaScript Object Notation, is a popular format for sending and storing data on the internet. Coders and webmasters use JSON content all the time to power the websites you love. When developing webpages or performing bug fixes, it can be helpful to highlight the JSON strings hidden within a body of code.

JSON Viewer DOWNLOAD

With the completely free JSON Viewer extension for Google Chrome, you can easily highlight the syntax you are looking for.

Toggling the extension
Upon acquiring JSON Viewer from the link above, you can toggle the add-on by clicking on the JSON Viewer icon that appears on the extension bar at the top of Chrome. Keep in mind that the icon will be invisible on sites that block it. For instance, Google’s chrome store does not allow the use of JSON altering add-ons. Navigate away from the download page to verify your extension is working. If your icon still doesn’t appear, check that JSON Viewer is pinned to your extension bar by clicking on the jigsaw icon and selecting the pin next to JSON Viewer in the add-on list.
Determine website permissions
JSON viewer can be placed into one of three settings for reading and editing site data. You can have it run automatically on every website, just the website you are currently visiting, or you can choose to manually activate the extension by clicking the JSON Viewer icon. To change this setting, click the JSON Viewer icon in your extension bar. Scroll over the field that says “this can read and change site data” to see the three options listed. Click on your preference, and the changes instantly take effect.
Changing your theme to dark mode
When working for hours or late into the night, reducing eye strain is a must. You can activate dark mode by navigating over to the options page. From the JSON Viewer drop-down menu, select options. You will notice the themes selector listed at the top. Click the drop-down menu and select 3024-night for a basic dark theme. The same menu provides 26 additional options as well.