- Slack is Slack’s own cloud-based instant messaging platform.
- You can chat with other users, send files, share images, and insert hyperlinks.
- Slack is programmed to open links that you click on in your computer’s default browser.
- A vulnerability has been found in the Slack platform where links cannot be opened in incognito mode.
- A bad default browser can cause a problem here.
- Download and install the software.
- It will scan your computer to find problems.
- The tool will then correct the issues that were discovered.
A Slack message can be sent to other users, files can be sent, images can be shared, and hyperlinks can be inserted.
There are some issues with Slack, as it cannot open links sent via chat, but it is useful for both personal and business use.
That’s why Techquack created this guide that can help you solve Slack not opening links.
Why is Slack not opening links?
There are some reasons common to all operating systems/platforms, though some are specific to certain types.
Different default browser settings: Slack is programmed to open links that you click on in your computer’s default browser. A bad default browser can cause a problem here.
Incognito is not supported: A vulnerability has been found in the Slack platform where links cannot be opened in incognito mode. This is a known fact, and there is currently no way to redirect links open in an Incognito environment.
Incorrect Slack installation: Another major reason why Slack doesn’t open links in your browser is that the application has not been installed correctly. This error usually occurs in Ubuntu settings, which we’ll talk about in detail later.
Chrome settings in Ubuntu: Ubuntu is known to conflict with Chrome regarding settings outside of the Chrome environment. Here we can change Chrome variables to make it open links when we click on Slack.
Bad cache: Another common cause is the accumulation of bad or corrupt data in the browser cache. When this happens, the browser can’t open external links and also behaves strangely.
Damaged Slack installation files on Windows: If you installed Slack via the Windows Store, chances are the installation files are corrupt or important components are missing. Try clearing the Windows Store cache and reinstalling it.
In order to proceed, you will need your Slack credentials ready to go, and your computer will need administrator rights.
What can you do to open links in Slack?
Updated: April 2024
We highly recommend that you use this tool for your error. Furthermore, this tool detects and removes common computer errors, protects you from loss of files, malware, and hardware failures, and optimizes your device for maximum performance. This software will help you fix your PC problems and prevent others from happening again:
- Step 1 : Install PC Repair & Optimizer Tool (Windows 10, 8, 7, XP, Vista).
- Step 2 : Click Start Scan to find out what issues are causing PC problems.
- Step 3 : Click on Repair All to correct all issues.
Make Chrome your default browser
- Select Advanced from the Settings menu.
- Then select the browser you want to use.
- You will be able to open links if you choose Google Chrome as your default browser.
Change Slack’s settings
It’s possible you’ve disabled permission in your settings to open links, which you may not have noticed.
- You can access Slack by launching the application and logging in.
- You can open the menu by clicking the three dots in the upper-right corner.
- Click on Advanced Settings.
- In the App, find open web pages. Turn on the feature.
- The changes will now be saved and the links should now be able to be opened.
Check your internet connection
You can open Slack on another device with an internet connection if the problem is caused by a bad internet connection. You have to check your internet connection to determine whether it is the cause.
Empty your Slack cache
- Start by logging into Slack.
- You can find the menu in the upper-left corner of the screen.
- Click Troubleshoot under Help.
- Restart the computer after selecting Clear cache and Restart from the new menu.
- Check that the process is working after it has completed.
Change your Chrome browser configuration
- You can find it in $HOME/.local/share/applications/google-chrome.desktop in your file explorer.
- In place of Exec=/opt/google/chrome, use Exec=/opt/google/chrome/chrome %u
- The application should be restarted after you save your changes.
RECOMMENATION: Click here for help with Windows errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t you open links in Slack?
Tap the three-dot menu in the upper right corner and select "Settings". Go to "Advanced" and turn off the "Open Websites in App" setting. The links you open in Slack will no longer open in your in-app browser but will open in your default web browser.
Why don’t the links open when I click on them?
The problems with opening hyperlinks are probably due to either your web browser's security restrictions that don't allow pop-ups to open or a plugin in your Flash player that doesn't allow URLs to open in-app local Flash files. Open the Adobe Flash Player settings.
What do I do if a link won’t open?
If links don't open in your browser, or if two tabs/windows open each time you click them, try the following. Change your default browser to a different browser and then change it again. In some cases, your operating system defaults may not be updated after updating your browser.
How do I create a hyperlink in Slack?
Copy and paste the link you want to share into an empty box under "Add Link" and click "Save." When you copy and paste formatted posts into Slack, the formatting is retained. To quickly apply the new formatting, press ⌘ Shift F (Mac) or Ctrl-Shift F (Windows/Linux).
Mark Ginter is a tech blogger with a passion for all things gadgets and gizmos. A self-proclaimed "geek", Mark has been blogging about technology for over 15 years. His blog, techquack.com, covers a wide range of topics including new product releases, industry news, and tips and tricks for getting the most out of your devices. If you're looking for someone who can keep you up-to-date with all the latest tech news and developments, then be sure to follow him over at Microsoft.
