Does anyone else using Webflow experience lagging, freezing, and crashing issues with the Webflow designer, even without recent JavaScript or third-party code updates? Is this potentially due to Webflow's maintenance or updates?

Webflow Designer lagging, freezing, or crashing—even without recent custom code changes—is a known issue that can arise from several causes, including Webflow platform updates, system limitations, or browser-related factors.

1. Confirm Platform Status and Updates

• Check Webflow’s Status at status.webflow.com to see if there are ongoing platform issues or maintenance.
• Webflow occasionally rolls out background updates to the Designer that can momentarily affect performance without direct notice.
• Review the Webflow Updates page to see if any recent changes may be affecting performance.

2. Browser and System Resource Issues

• Webflow Designer is resource-intensive—especially with large or complex projects. Insufficient RAM or CPU resources can lead to crashes or lags.
• Make sure you're using Google Chrome or Safari (preferred browsers for Webflow), and that your browser is updated.
• Disable unused browser extensions, especially any that inject scripts (like ad blockers or privacy tools).
• Clear browser cache and relaunch the browser to reduce potential memory buildup.

3. File and Asset-Related Lag

• Large image or video assets, complex animations, and Lottie files can slow down the Designer.
• Check your Asset panel for oversized files and consider compressing or replacing them.

4. Webflow Project Complexity

• Very large Webflow projects—with hundreds of elements or interactions—can degrade performance.
• Use Symbols (Components) and nested structures efficiently to avoid overloading the Designer DOM.

5. Third-Party Code Still Matters

• Even if you haven’t updated any code, previous embedded JavaScript or broken API references can still affect load behavior if external sources are down or slow.
• Try duplicating your project (“Backup & Duplicate Site”) and then remove custom code to test Designer performance without it.

6. Try an Incognito Window or New Profile

• Launch Webflow in a Chrome Incognito window (or Private mode in Safari) to rule out extension conflicts.
• Alternatively, create a fresh browser user profile to isolate from corrupted profile settings or cached data.

Summary

Lagging or freezing in the Webflow Designer can stem from platform-side updates, asset bloat, system limits, or even existing (but unmodified) custom code. To reduce crashes, monitor Webflow’s status, evaluate your browser and system resources, and test your project in a stripped-down environment. If the problem persists across devices and sessions, contact Webflow Support for deeper investigation.