Do you want to add web content like HTML, CSS, or JavaScript to your desktop apps? Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime makes this possible. It lets apps show modern web content using the same engine as Microsoft Edge (Chromium).
Most Windows 11 PCs already come with WebView2 Runtime installed. However, in some cases, you may need to perform a Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime download manually, especially if an app requires it or it is missing from your system.
This guide will show you the quickest and easiest way to download and install the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime. But first, let’s understand what it is and why it is useful. This will help you see why many apps rely on it to work properly.
Understanding Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime
In simple terms, the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime is a tool that allows developers to use web content, like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, inside desktop apps. It uses the same engine as the Microsoft Edge (Chromium) browser to show this content smoothly inside the app, without needing to open a separate browser window.
It is important to know that this runtime is not a full browser. You will not see it in your Start menu or as a desktop icon. It runs in the background and is only used by apps that need it.
Some popular programs like Microsoft Office, Power BI, and Visual Studio use Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime to show parts of their interface or online features. One of its biggest advantages is that it gives users a consistent experience across different apps and devices.
Now that you know what Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime is, let’s look at how you can download and install it on Windows 11.
How to Download and Install Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime on Windows 11
Before you start the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime download, make sure your system meets the minimum version requirement. WebView2 needs version 92 or higher to work properly on Windows 11.
Once that is taken care of, just follow these simple steps to download and install it:
- Open your browser and visit the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime download page.
- Scroll down to the section that says “Download the WebView2 Runtime.”
- Under the Evergreen Bootstrapper option, click the download link. This version keeps WebView2 up to date automatically in the background.
- Read through the Microsoft Software License Terms, then click Accept and Download to continue.
- Open your Downloads folder, find the file you just downloaded (it will be a .exe file), right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
- If asked, enter your administrator username and password to allow the installation.
- A setup window will open. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish installing Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime.
Once done, the runtime will be installed in the background. You will not see it as a regular app, but it will now be available for any program that needs it.
Now that you know how to complete the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime download and installation, let’s take a look at the benefits it brings to your Windows 11 system.
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Why Use Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime?
Having the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime installed on your Windows 11 computer brings several helpful benefits, especially for apps that rely on modern web content. Here are some of the key advantages:
- WebView2 lets apps use popular web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This means developers can use existing web tools, libraries, and frameworks inside desktop apps, making development faster and easier.
- Since WebView2 is built on the Microsoft Edge (Chromium) engine, it gets updated regularly. This allows apps to quickly support the latest web features, improvements, and security updates, without waiting for full app updates.
- WebView2 helps deliver a consistent look and feel across different apps and devices. Users can enjoy a smooth and familiar experience, no matter which app they are using.
- With WebView2, developers can allow apps to use native Windows features in a controlled way. This helps build powerful apps without putting system security at risk.
- Developers can reuse the same web code in different apps. This saves time, reduces errors, and avoids repeating the same work in multiple places.
- WebView2 simplifies how web content is added to desktop apps. Developers do not need to build everything from scratch, which speeds up app development and makes updates easier.
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Conclusion
Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime helps you get the most out of the web by connecting web content with desktop apps. It makes it easier to build strong, modern applications by combining the power of web technologies with the speed and reliability of native Windows apps.
If you are setting it up for the first time, just follow the easy steps in this guide to complete the Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime download and installation on Windows 11.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments section below. We also welcome your suggestions and feedback on this article.
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