How to Downgrade Google Chrome to an Older Version

Sometimes can be necessary if it’s FUBAR

Do you want to use an earlier version of the Google Chrome browser? We’ll show you how to downgrade Chrome on your desktop or mobile.

Google Chrome works best when it’s up-to-date. New features aside, that’s when it’s the most stable, with fewer bugs, glitches, and performance issues hampering performance. You also have fewer security and privacy threats to deal with.

On rare occasions, though, new updates can break Google Chrome and stop it from working correctly. It makes sense to downgrade to an older browser version when that happens.

Downgrading Chrome to an older browser version can be complicated, mainly because of its ability to perform automatic updates. Here’s what you must do to install a previous version of Chrome on PC, Mac, and Android.

Note: Using an old version of Google Chrome for extended periods is a bad idea due to likely security vulnerabilities. Upgrade to the latest version as soon as possible.

How to Downgrade Chrome on Windows and Mac

Before downgrading the Chrome web browser in Windows and macOS, you must back up your Chrome data (like your bookmarks and passwords) if you want to get them back. The best way to do that is to sync the data to a Google Account.

Once you’ve done that, you can begin downgrading Chrome. The process consists of four parts; uninstalling Chrome, removing leftover program files, reinstalling Chrome, and disabling the browser’s auto-update capabilities.

Start by uninstalling the current version of Chrome from your computer.

In Windows:

On the Mac:

You must follow by locating the folder containing your remaining Chrome data.

In Windows:

On the Mac:

In the directory that shows up, delete the folder labeledChrome. Or, rename it toChrome.oldif you could not sync browsing data online and would like to retain a backup copy of your bookmarks and passwords.

Google does not provide official downloads of past Chrome versions, so you must rely on third-party sources like FileHippo (here are links toFileHippo’s WindowsorMac download pages for Chrome) andSlimJet. Use Microsoft Edge, Safari, or another browser to perform the download.

Warning: We strongly advise against downgrading to a version of the browser that’s multiple interactions older since those tend to contain vulnerabilities that can put your privacy and security at risk.

After downloading an old version of Google Chrome, disconnect your PC or Mac from the internet and run the standalone Chrome installer to install the browser. If the browser launches automatically, quit it before you go ahead.

The next step involves stopping Google Chrome from auto-updating itself.

In Windows:

On the Mac:

You can now open the older version of Google Chrome and sign in with your Google Account to sync your browsing data. If you did not do that but have a backup of theChromefolder, copy and paste theBookmarks,Login Data, andLogin Data-journalfiles from theDefaultsubfolder into the same location inside the newChromefolder.

Since you disabled Chrome’s auto-update functionalities, it will not update itself unless you do the following.

In Windows:

Revisit theServicesapp and set theStartup typeforGoogle Update (gupdate)andGoogle Update (gupdatem)toAutomatic.

On the Mac:

Open a Go to Folder box, visit the following directories, and delete theGooglefolder inside:

Once you’ve done that, open theChrome menuand selectHelp>About Google Chrometo initiate an update.

How to Downgrade Chrome on Android

Android provides two ways to downgrade Google Chrome. The first method involves uninstalling all updates and reverting the browser to the version that shipped with your phone. It’s quick and straightforward, but you have no control over the version you want to fall back to.

The other method involves removing Chrome and sideloading an old browser version. Since Chrome is a native Android app, the only way to remove it is to run a sequence of commands via a PC and Mac.

If you want to update Chrome to its latest version at another time, simply head back to the Google Chrome store page and tapUpdate.

In Windows:

Open the extractedplatform-toolsfolder. Then, typecmdin the File Explorer address bar and pressEnter.

On the Command Prompt window that shows up, run the following commands.

On the Mac:

Control-click or right-click the extractedplatform-toolsfolder, point toServices, and selectOpen Terminal at Folder.

Then, run the following commands:

If you need to switch back to the latest version of Chrome, uninstall the sideloaded copy and install Chrome via the Google Play Store.

What About Downgrading Chrome on iOS?

Unlike Android, downgrading Chrome is impossible on iPhone since Apple’s App Store does not allow you to remove recent updates. Nor does it allow you to sideload earlier versions of Chrome.

However, if you use a jailbroken iPhone, installing an older version of Chrome might be possible with a tool like AppStore++ from the Cydia Store.

Dilum Senevirathne is a freelance tech writer and blogger with three years of experience writing for online technology publications. He specializes in topics related to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Google web apps. When he isn’t hammering away at his Magic Keyboard, you can catch him binge-watching productivity hacks on YouTube.Read Dilum’s Full Bio

Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked*

Comment*

Name*

Email*

Website

Welcome to Help Desk Geek- a blog full of tech tips from trusted tech experts. We have thousands of articles and guides to help you troubleshoot any issue. Our articles have been read over 150 million times since we launched in 2008.

HomeAbout UsEditorial StandardsContact UsTerms of Use

How to Downgrade Google Chrome to an Older Version#

How to Downgrade Chrome on Windows and Mac#

How to Downgrade Chrome on Android#

What About Downgrading Chrome on iOS?#