KB Article: Backing Up Chrome Bookmarks (Export to HTML)

Overview

Exporting creates a single HTML file containing all your browser bookmarks and their folder structure. This is the most reliable way to back up your data or migrate your favorite sites to a new computer or a different web browser (like Edge or Firefox).

Step-by-Step Export Process

1. Open Chrome's Bookmark Manager

  • Click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of Chrome.
  • Hover over Bookmarks and lists and click Bookmark manager.
  • Pro-Tip: Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + O (Windows) or Command + Option + B (Mac) to jump there instantly.

2. Find the Export Option

  • Once in the Bookmark Manager tab, look for the second three-dot menu (⋮) located near the top-right of the blue bar (often labeled "Organize").
  • Select Export bookmarks from the dropdown menu.

3. Save the File

  • A file explorer window will open.
  • Choose a Location: We recommend saving this to your Google Drive (G:) or your H: Drive to ensure the backup itself is stored in the cloud.
  • File Name: The file will default to a name like bookmarks_4_28_26.html. You can leave this as-is or rename it.
  • Click Save.

How to Use the Backup (Importing)

If you get a new computer or need to restore your links, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Bookmark Manager (as described above).
  2. Click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the Bookmark Manager.
  3. Select Import bookmarks.
  4. Locate your saved HTML file and click Open.

Best Practices

  • Quarterly Backups: Even if you use Chrome Sync, it is a good idea to perform a manual export every few months as a "hard copy" backup.
  • Naming Convention: If you manage multiple profiles (e.g., Work and Personal), include the profile name in the file (e.g., Work_Bookmarks_April2026.html).
  • Verify the File: After saving, you can double-click the HTML file to open it in a browser and verify that all your links appear in the list.

Note: Chrome exports all bookmarks at once. If you only need a specific folder, the standard export will still include everything, but you can organize them into folders once you import them into the new location.