modreq: a compact Chrome extension for editing HTTP headers
modreq - Modify HTTP Headers from sargonpiraev is a Chrome extension for developers and QA engineers who need to intercept and alter HTTP requests. The extension lets users replace or append request headers and override cookies directly in the active tab, useful for testing APIs, CORS, and session swaps. It uses Manifest V3 with the declarativeNetRequest API and offers one-click rule toggles plus local-only storage. The target audience is web developers, QA testers, and security researchers seeking a compact, privacy-focused tool for debugging network traffic.
What is modreq used for?
modreq is a focused in-browser header editor that targets development and QA tasks. The extension can replace or append HTTP request headers such as Authorization and X-Forwarded-For, and it can override cookies on the active site, which supports testing authorization flows, CORS debugging, and session swapping. The UI exposes per-rule toggles so testers can enable or disable individual changes without editing raw rule JSON.
How does it behave under Manifest V3?
Built on Manifest V3, the extension applies modifications through the declarativeNetRequest API rather than injecting scripts at runtime. That architecture reduces persistent background activity, matching the extension's lightweight design and its stated avoidance of unnecessary background processes. For practical testing workflows this means rules are applied by the browser's network stack, not a long-running helper, which simplifies resource use while keeping rule application predictable during repeated request sequences.
Does modreq limit data collection and syncing?
The extension stores all rules locally and does not use cloud synchronization, reflecting a local-first approach from sargonpiraev. The developer notes that there is no data collection and no third-party tracking, which reduces external exposure of rule definitions. For teams that need shared rule sets, the local-only model means rules do not propagate automatically, so administrators should plan manual distribution if consistent configurations are required across multiple machines.
Is modreq a practical alternative to larger header tools?
modreq positions itself as a privacy-focused alternative to larger header managers by concentrating on core modification tasks and avoiding extra UI clutter. The extension supports Chromium-based browsers and keeps controls minimal. Typical practical uses include:
- replacing Authorization headers for API testing
- changing X-Forwarded-For values during debugging
- overriding cookies to switch sessions quickly
This focused scope suits engineers who prefer a compact tool over feature-heavy suites.
Final assessment and who should adopt it
For web developers and QA engineers focused on iterative network testing, the extension delivers a compact, no-frills way to adjust requests during sessions. Practical tip: open the browser's developer tools Network panel while toggling rules to confirm header and cookie changes in real time. modreq is a pragmatic option for specialists who prefer single-purpose in-browser tools over broader, cloud-backed suites.
