Top 9 Ways to Fix Google Chrome Stuck on Waiting to Download Issue
We often joke about everyone using Internet Explorer or Microsoft Edge Browser to install Google Chrome. But what if Edge refuses to allow you to download Chrome? That’s the issue some Windows 10 users are experiencing. If you’re also facing the problem of Windows 10 blocking Google Chrome installation, you’re in the right place.
Sometimes, when Chrome is giving you trouble or when you upgrade your PC, you may want to reinstall Chrome. Typically, you would open another browser and proceed to download Chrome. But sadly, the installer gets stuck on ‘Downloading’ or ‘Waiting to Download’ option.
What do you do in such a situation? How do you install your beloved Chrome again? Find the answer here where we tell you how to fix Google Chrome stuck on downloading.
1. Restart Your Computer
It’s a good practice to shut down your computer after using it rather than putting it on sleep or hibernating it. If you are trying to install Chrome on a system that hasn’t been restarted in a while or you recently uninstalled Chrome, start by restarting your PC.
2. Set Correct Date and Time
Setting the correct date and time is important for the proper functioning of your PC. If downloads fail, verify your PC’s date. Right-click on the taskbar’s date and time, and select Adjust date/time. If the date and time are missing, fix it first.
Enable Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically options. Click on Sync now under Synchronize your clock. Then, try installing Chrome.
3. Download Offline Installer
When installing Chrome, you usually download a small file. An active internet connection is required for the full installation. If installation fails, try using the offline installer. Download it from the provided link and then click to begin installation.
4. Turn off Smart Screen
Windows 10 has a protective feature called Smart Screen that protects against phishing and malicious downloads. However, it can also prevent Chrome from downloading regular files. To fix this issue, you need to disable Smart Screen on your PC. Follow these steps:
1. Open Settings on your PC from the Start Menu or press Windows and I keys on the keyboard.
2. Go to Update and Security.
- Step 3: Open Windows Security and select App & browser control.
Step 4: Under SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge, choose Warn or Off.
Restart your PC and try downloading Chrome.
5. Enough Storage
If you cannot download anything, ensure you have sufficient storage space on your PC. Use the Storage Sense feature to free up space.
6. Disable Antivirus
Sometimes, antivirus software on your computer can prevent Chrome from installing. If you got Chrome from an authorized source, try disabling your antivirus temporarily and then install Chrome. You should also check your firewall settings for any issues.
7. Change Download Path
Sometimes, the download path may lead to an invalid location, which could be the reason why you’re unable to download anything from the Edge browser. To fix this issue, you need to change the download location. Follow these steps:
1. Launch the Edge browser and click on the three-dot icon at the top. Select Settings.
2. Scroll down to the General section and find Downloads. Click on Change and select a valid location.
8. Use Internet Explorer
Who would have thought that someone would suggest using the old Internet Explorer as a fix? Well, old is gold. If the new Edge browser is giving you trouble, Internet Explorer will come to your rescue. It’s pre-installed on your PC. Use the search to find it and then download Chrome using it.
9. Disable S Mode
If you are running Windows 10 S edition, you can only install apps from Microsoft Store. This might be why Chrome installation is failing for you.
To fix this, you need to convert your PC from Windows 10 S edition to Windows 10 Pro, allowing you to install any app. However, keep in mind that once you switch out of S mode, you cannot go back. It’s a one-way journey, so proceed with caution.
Here’s how to switch out of S mode in Windows 10:
Step 1: Open Settings on your PC and navigate to Update and Security.
In the left sidebar, click on Activation.
Step 3: Switch to Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro by clicking Go to the Store.
Note:
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions.
Welcome Chrome
Microsoft Edge isn’t bad. However, once you switch to Chrome, it ties you to Google services and convenient features. That’s why we install Chrome first when we get a new PC. We hope you were able to install Google Chrome on your PC using the mentioned fixes. If you like the Edge browser and wonder how it differs from Chrome on Android, read on.
Next: Once Chrome is running, it may cause future troubles. You can fix those by resetting Chrome. Learn more about what happens when you reset Chrome.
As Fred Humiston, the author behind Twothirds.us, I focus on providing practical and easy-to-follow guides and solutions for a variety of technical issues that people commonly face.
My articles cover a wide range of topics, from troubleshooting out-of-sync audio on TikTok and managing Firestick devices, to understanding the impact of Capcut on video quality and resolving sound issues on Hisense Roku TVs.
I also delve into more general tech tips, like how to block numbers on landlines or use VPNs without Wi-Fi. My goal is to make technology more accessible and less intimidating for everyone, whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user. I strive to offer clear, concise, and helpful advice to make your digital experience smoother and more enjoyable.