Many users reinstall Windows only to discover their saved browser logins are permanently lost. Chrome does not actually store passwords in the browser account — it encrypts them using Windows security keys tied to your user profile.
Where Chrome Stores Passwords in Windows
Chrome saves credentials inside a local database: %LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Login Data
The passwords inside this database are encrypted using Windows DPAPI and tied to the Windows account SID. Because of this, copying the Chrome folder alone will NOT restore passwords after reinstall.
In This Guide
Why Export Browser Passwords Without Sync?
Browser sync services (Google Sync, Firefox Sync, Microsoft Sync) are great for daily use but have limitations when migrating computers:
- Internet dependency: Requires active internet connection during migration
- Sync delays: May not transfer all passwords immediately
- Account issues: Sync can fail if you forget account password
- Partial transfers: Some passwords may not sync properly
- Privacy concerns: Storing passwords on third-party servers
By exporting passwords locally, you maintain full control and ensure complete transfer of all credentials.
Method 1: Using Browser Password Recovery Tool (Recommended)
Step-by-Step with BPRT
The most reliable method for most users to recover Chrome passwords from Windows profile database and export them into a portable backup file:
- Download and install BPRT on your current Windows system
- Launch the tool and click "Start Scan" - it automatically detects all installed browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera)
- View results in a readable table showing website URLs, usernames, and passwords
- Export options: Save to CSV file, copy to clipboard, or print the list
Advantages: Works even when Chrome password manager is locked, handles encrypted passwords, supports all major browsers, no internet required.
Download BPRT Free TrialPro Tip: Test Before Formatting
After exporting passwords, test a few on another device or browser to ensure the export worked correctly before formatting your main computer.
Method 2: Built-in Browser Export Features
Most browsers have built-in password export functions, but they're often hidden or limited:
Google Chrome (Windows)
// Chrome's hidden password export:
1. Open Chrome → Settings → Autofill → Passwords
2. Click the three dots next to "Saved passwords"
3. Select "Export passwords"
4. Enter your Windows password for verification
5. Save the CSV file to a secure location
Mozilla Firefox
Firefox requires using the built-in password manager (not all versions support export):
- Type
about:loginsin the address bar - Click the three-dot menu → "Export Logins"
- Save the CSV file (passwords will be encrypted)
Microsoft Edge
Edge's export is similar to Chrome:
- Settings → Profiles → Passwords
- Click "Export passwords" (may require Windows Hello or password)
Security Warning
Exported CSV files contain passwords in plain text. Never save them to cloud storage without encryption. Use VeraCrypt, password-protected ZIP files, or encrypted USB drives for secure storage.
Method 3: Manual File Backup (Advanced)
For complete control, you can manually backup browser profile folders:
| Browser | Profile Location (Windows) | Key Files |
|---|---|---|
| Chrome | %LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default |
Login Data, Login Data-journal |
| Firefox | %APPDATA%\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\[profile].default |
logins.json, key4.db |
| Edge | %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Edge\User Data\Default |
Login Data, Login Data-journal |
Note: This method copies encrypted password files. You'll need the original browser to decrypt them on the new system.
Method Comparison Table
| Method | Difficulty | Success Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Browser Password Recovery Tool | Easy (1-click) | 99% | Most users, complete backup |
| Built-in Browser Export | Medium | 70-80% | Simple cases, few passwords |
| Manual File Backup | Advanced | 90% | Technical users, full profile backup |