Open a URL in background Chrome (CDP)

Prerequisites

• Chrome is enabled and connected in Browser Mode (CDP).
• The URL is valid and variables used in it have values before execution.
• For dynamic pages, prepare Wait for element or Delay after navigation.

Supported modes

• Browser Mode — Navigates through CDP without controlling the system mouse or keyboard.

What it does

The Open URL command drives background Chrome (CDP mode) to a web address. Because it runs through CDP it does not take over the real mouse/keyboard — you can keep working. The URL can include variables (e.g. {link}).

When to use it

• Start a web workflow by opening the target page.
• Switch to a different URL mid-script.
• Open many links in turn pulled from a variable/data store.

When not to use it

• You need to open a desktop application or a browser that is not connected through CDP.
• You need to assert that the page is ready in the same command; add an appropriate wait step.
• The URL contains sensitive data without a plan to protect logs and configuration files.

Configuration steps

1. Set the macro to Browser Mode (Chrome/CDP) and connect Chrome.
2. Add the Browser › Open URL command.
3. Enter the URL (variables allowed) and choose Current tab or New tab. Save.

Every option explained

Expected result

Chrome navigates the selected tab to the URL after variable substitution; when New tab is selected, a new tab is created for the address.

Real example

Limitations and failure cases

• Opening a URL does not guarantee that dynamic content is ready; prefer Wait for element over an arbitrary delay when possible.
• The command works only with an active Browser Mode/CDP connection.
• Invalid URLs or variables can fail navigation or open the wrong page.

Tips & common mistakes

Verification details

• commands/cdp_browser.py

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