Downloading a specific version of Google Chrome is a notoriously difficult task because Google intentionally designs the browser to be an "evergreen" product that auto-updates to the latest stable release. While this ensures security, it creates significant hurdles for developers and users with legacy software needs. Overview of the Download Experience Finding a specific Chrome version is less of a "one-click" experience and more of a technical workaround. There are three primary ways to approach this, each with varying levels of difficulty and security risk: Chrome for Testing (Highly Recommended for Devs) : Google recently launched Chrome for Testing, a dedicated flavor of Chrome specifically for browser automation and debugging. It provides reliable, versioned binaries that do not auto-update, making it the most stable choice for technical tasks. Chromium Snapshots (Official but Technical) : Since Chrome is based on the open-source Chromium project, you can download specific "build positions" from the Chromium Continuous Builds Archive . This requires looking up a version's "base position" number via tools like OmahaProxy to find the correct folder. Third-Party Repositories (Use with Caution) : Sites like SlimJet, FileHippo, or Uptodown host installers for old versions. While convenient, these are not official and carry inherent security risks. The Post-Download "Auto-Update" Battle Where to download the old version of Google Chrome
Why Download a Specific Chrome Version? Common legitimate reasons include:
Legacy system compatibility – Older OS versions (e.g., Windows 7, certain Linux distros) may only support specific Chrome releases. Enterprise/IT testing – Ensuring internal web apps work before auto-updates roll out. Extension or driver support – Some Selenium/WebDriver tests require a fixed Chrome version. Avoiding a buggy update – Temporarily reverting while a fix is developed.
How to Get Older Chrome Versions Official source (limited) Google doesn't provide a public archive, but: chrome download specific version
Chrome for Testing – Official builds back to ~M113. ✅ Safe, but mainly for automation. https://googlechromelabs.github.io/chrome-for-testing/
Unofficial (common, but use caution)
FileHippo – Old versions available, but download buttons can be misleading. VetusWare / OldVersion.com – Decent archives, but no checksums. Slimjet (portable builds) – Some older releases. Downloading a specific version of Google Chrome is
⚠️ Critical Risks
Security vulnerabilities – Older Chrome versions have unpatched exploits (some known to be actively used). Never use them for daily browsing with personal accounts. No automatic updates – You must manually manage security. Potential malware – Unofficial download sites sometimes bundle adware. Always scan downloaded .exe / .dmg with VirusTotal. Certificate / web compatibility issues – Very old Chrome versions won't trust modern TLS certs or render many modern sites correctly.
Step-by-Step Safe Approach
Identify exact version number (e.g., 120.0.6099.130 ). Check Chrome for Testing first – if they have it, it's the safest. If not, use FileHippo or VetusWare but:
Verify SHA-256 hash (if available). Run in a VM or isolated test environment.