My Google Docs won’t connect to the Internet

I found myself dealing with a perplexing issue while traveling and relying on public Wi-Fi. I was clearly online, I could visit various websites, but Google Docs kept showing that I was offline. This is extremely frustrating as I can’t access certain Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides features when I’m offline. In particular, he was collaborating with someone in real time on the document, which I obviously can’t do when he thinks I’m offline.

Troubleshooting the “Google Docs Offline” issue

Since I was actually connected to the internet, I was able to try various google searches to try and fix the problem. I’ve tried adjusting the WiFi settings and removing and putting back DNS. Without result.

Working offline is a feature that is often underestimated and offers considerable benefits, especially for educators. It gives you the freedom to work on your Google Docs regardless of Internet connectivity, a real help when traveling or in areas with patchy Internet connections. However, when I’m online I’d like to use all the features.

Unmasking the real culprit: Chrome extensions

After a lot of troubleshooting, I found out that the problem was not due to the network but was related to my Chrome extensions. Although these extensions usually improve our browsing experience, they can also interfere with the normal functioning of certain applications. By systematically disabling my extensions, I was able to resolve the issue and get Google Docs back to normal.

Disabling Chrome extensions is a common way to fix Google Apps issues.

A while back, something weird happened when I gave students feedback in Google Classroom. The cursor would keep going back to the beginning of the paragraph in the middle of my typing. I have contacted Google about this, frustrated with this strange glitch. However, it turned out not to be a Google Classroom bug, but an effect of a Chrome extension.

Uninstall and reinstall one at a time

Right-click on a Chrome extension and choose “Manage.” There you can remove Chrome extensions. Make a list of what you are uninstalling! Remove all your extensions and restart Chrome. Re-add extensions one at a time to determine which extension was to blame for your failures.

Chrome extensions are useful

As we navigate the digital landscape, browser extensions that can be installed on Google Chrome can significantly improve our experience. These tools can add functionality to our use of Chrome, improving our efficiency and convenience. However, as is the case with any tool, Chrome extensions come with their own set of pros and cons.

The main benefit of Chrome extensions is the additional functionality they bring to your browsing experience. They can increase your productivity, simplify complex tasks, and streamline your digital workflow. For example, an extension can help you block ads, manage your tabs, take screenshots, and much more.

Chrome extensions provide seamless integration with Google Workspace apps like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides, enhancing their capabilities. For example, a grammar checking extension can correct your Google Docs in real time, or a project management extension can help you organize your Google Sheets. I particularly like the Speck Chrome extension, as it allows me to add audio to my Google Slides, Forms, etc.

Extensions allow you to tailor your browsing experience to your unique needs and preferences. Whether you want to change the aesthetics of your browser or need specific tools for web development, chances are there is a Chrome extension that can meet your specific needs.

The challenge of extensions

Chrome extensions can slow down your browser. Each extension runs processes in the background, consuming your system resources. Having too many extensions active simultaneously can therefore slow down your browsing speed and overall computer performance.

Sometimes extensions can cause unexpected crashes or conflicts with websites or other extensions, causing them to not work properly. For example, some extensions may interfere with the proper rendering of websites or interrupt the normal operation of your Google applications.

Finally, and most importantly, Chrome extensions present potential security risks. While Google vets extensions in the Chrome Web Store, unauthorized extensions can sometimes go unnoticed. These malicious extensions can steal your data, inject ads, or even install malware on your computer. Always make sure to do your research if you trust the creator.

Recommended Chrome Extensions for Teachers

Despite the potential for conflicts, many Chrome extensions are incredibly helpful, especially for teachers. Here are a few that I highly recommend:

1. Speck – Record audio notes to paste as comments or add audio elements to your Google apps.
2. An eyelash – Collapse all your open tabs into a list to speed up your browser and revisit sites later.
3. bitmoji – Personalize your digital resources by adding a cartoon of yours.
4. QuickShare screenshot – Take a screenshot of the students’ work. Save to Google Drive. Copy the link to the screenshot to your clipboard.
5. Equation – Add math symbols and notation to Google Apps: Docs, Forms, Slides, etc.
6. anyone can see – Change Google Doc, Sheets, Slides settings so anyone can see and copy the link to your clipboard.
7. slide timer– Adds a countdown (or up) timer to your Google Slides presentation.

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