How to Fix the “Native Host Connector Not Detected” Error for GNOME Extensions in Ubuntu 22.04

When upgrading to Ubuntu 22.04 LTS (Jammy Jellyfish), many users encounter the error message: “Although GNOME Shell integration extension is running, native host connector is not detected”.

This issue originates from Ubuntu’s transition to Firefox as a Snap package, which alters the browser’s integration with the operating system.

Understanding the Problem: Firefox Snap and GNOME Extensions

The root cause lies in the Snap packaging of Firefox. Snap packages run in isolated environments with limited access to system resources—a security feature that, however, restricts the communication between Firefox and GNOME Shell. Previously, this integration was seamless when Firefox was distributed as a traditional Debian package.

When you visit extensions.gnome.org, the browser must interact with GNOME Shell through a native host connector to install, enable, and manage extensions.

Read: How to install GNOME Shell Extensions in Ubuntu

Solution 1: Install Extension Manager (Recommended Approach)

The simplest method is bypassing browser integration using the dedicated Extension Manager application—a native GTK4 tool for managing GNOME Shell extensions.

Step-by-Step Installation:

• sudo apt install gnome-shell-extension-manager
  Installs Extension Manager from Ubuntu’s universe repository.
• Alternatively, install via Flatpak:
  flatpak install flathub com.mattjakeman.ExtensionManager
• Launch the application by running:
  extension-manager

Benefits:

• Browse and search extensions directly from the desktop.
• Install, remove, enable, disable, and configure extensions effortlessly.
• Access detailed information including screenshots, ratings, and comments.
• No reliance on browser integration.

Solution 2: Using the Command Line for Extension Management

For users favoring a direct approach or remote management via SSH, the gnome-extensions command-line tool is highly effective.

Installing Extensions Manually:

• Download the extension ZIP file from extensions.gnome.org (ensure you select GNOME Shell version 42 for Ubuntu 22.04).
• Navigate to your download directory:
  cd ~/Downloads
• Install the extension with:
  gnome-extensions install -f extension-filename.zip
  The -f flag forces installation by overwriting any existing version.
• Log out and log back in (or restart GNOME Shell) to activate the extension.
• Enable the extension:
  gnome-extensions enable extension-uuid
• Retrieve the extension UUID by executing:
  gnome-extensions list

Solution 3: Fix Browser Integration (Updated for 22.04.3+)

From Ubuntu 22.04.3 LTS onward, the Firefox Snap package supports native messaging with GNOME Shell extensions. To use browser integration:

• Install the browser connector package:
  sudo apt install chrome-gnome-shell
  Despite the package name, it works with both Firefox and Chrome/Chromium.
• Install the browser extension when prompted on extensions.gnome.org.
• Restart Firefox completely (ensure all windows are closed before relaunching).
• Return to extensions.gnome.org to manage your extensions.

Read: Launch Ubuntu 24.04 System Settings from Terminal: gnome-control-center

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

• Verify the connector installation:

  ls -la /usr/share/gnome-shell/extensions/
  ls -la ~/.local/share/gnome-shell/extensions/
  dpkg -l | grep chrome-gnome-shell

• Confirm your GNOME Shell version:

  gnome-shell --version

• Reset extension settings if necessary:

  dconf reset -f /org/gnome/shell/extensions/

  Warning: This resets all extension configurations.

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• Monitor system logs for extension-related errors:

  journalctl -f -o cat /usr/bin/gnome-shell

Why Extensions Matter in the Ubuntu Experience

GNOME Shell extensions enhance desktop functionality, allowing users to tailor the Ubuntu experience beyond default settings. Popular extensions such as Dash to Dock, AppIndicator Support, and Caffeine improve productivity. Although the Snap packaging of Firefox enhances security and streamlines updates, it necessitated new approaches to extension management.

Conclusion

The “native host connector not detected” error in Ubuntu 22.04 can be resolved using multiple methods. Whether you opt for the graphical Extension Manager, command-line tools, or the updated browser integration (22.04.3+), these solutions restore full control over your GNOME Shell extensions. Choose the method that best aligns with your workflow and technical proficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Ubuntu switch Firefox to a Snap package?

Ubuntu adopted Snap packaging for Firefox to bolster security via containerization, simplify updates across versions, and reduce maintenance overhead. However, this change initially introduced integration challenges with GNOME Shell.

Will these solutions work on other Ubuntu flavors like Kubuntu or Xubuntu?

Yes. These solutions are applicable on any Ubuntu flavor running GNOME Shell. For distributions not using GNOME, the Extension Manager and command-line tools remain valuable if GNOME Shell is installed alongside the primary desktop.

Do I need to remove the Firefox Snap to fix this issue?

No. The updated Snap package in Ubuntu 22.04.3+ supports native messaging. Alternatively, using Extension Manager or command-line tools circumvents the need to alter your Firefox installation.

What happens to my extensions during Ubuntu upgrades?

Extensions may be disabled during major upgrades due to compatibility checks. Using Extension Manager or command-line tools allows for easy reactivation of compatible extensions post-upgrade.

Are there security implications to installing extensions?

Since GNOME Shell extensions run with user-level privileges, it is crucial to install only those from trusted sources—ideally, from the official extensions.gnome.org repository—and to keep them updated.

Can I use these solutions on older Ubuntu versions?

Yes. Although this issue primarily affects Ubuntu 22.04, both Extension Manager and the command-line approach provide viable methods for managing extensions on older releases as well.