How to Install Google Chrome in Windows Server 2008

Google Chrome, renowned for its speed, safety, and simplicity, is a browser used by millions of individuals and businesses worldwide. In some instances, users may wish to install Chrome on a server environment, such as Windows Server 2008, for web application testing, remote browsing, or other server-specific tasks. This article explains how to install Google Chrome Enterprise on a Windows Server 2008 system by using the standalone Chrome version.

Before we start, it’s important to note that Microsoft ended its extended support for Windows Server 2008 on January 14, 2020. Therefore, it’s recommended to upgrade to a more recent version of Windows Server for the latest features, enhancements, and security updates. However, if you’re maintaining an older system, these steps will assist you in getting Google Chrome up and running.

Installing Google Chrome in Windows Server 2008?

Windows Server 2008 comes with Internet Explorer, but if you want to switch to Google Chrome, you can start downloading Google Chrome Offline Installer.

If the installer is not working, then you can try to download the Google Chrome Installer from Google Chrome One Click Install

Then, the download process will initiate. You’d need to enable downloads in your Windows Server 2008 and Javascript. To enable Javascript, go to Internet Settings and then the Security tab. Then, look for the Internet zone, and under Scripting, look for Active Scripts. Enable Active Scripts, and then you can download the installer.

Here is the step by step guide:

Step 1. Downloading Google Chrome Offline Installer

1.1 Open Internet Explorer

On Windows Server 2008, Internet Explorer is the default web browser. Launch it by clicking on the Internet Explorer icon on the taskbar or by navigating to Start > All Programs > Internet Explorer.

1.2 Visit Google Chrome’s Offline Installer Page

Type Google Chrome offline installer into the search bar and press enter. Click on the first result, which should be a page hosted by Google. This page provides the offline installer for Google Chrome.

1.3 Download the Installer

On the download page, you’ll find two options: one for single-user installation and one for multi-user installation. Click on the download button that suits your needs. For most use cases, the single-user option will be appropriate.

Confirm your acceptance of the terms of service, then click on the “Accept and Install” button to start the download.

Step 2. Installing Google Chrome in Windows Server 2008

2.1 Locate the Installer File

After the download is complete, navigate to the folder where the installer has been saved. This is usually the Downloads folder, accessible by clicking Start > Computer > Downloads.

2.2 Run the Installer

Double-click on the downloaded file to start the installation process. Windows Server 2008 might ask for administrative permissions due to User Account Control (UAC). If this happens, click “Yes” or “Continue”.

2.3 Follow the Installation Process

The Google Chrome installer will now run. It will first unpack and then install the browser on your server. This process is mostly automated; there are no settings or preferences to configure during the installation.

Troubleshooting installation

If you still getting the error message, then you can try the following steps.

1. Go to Control Panel and open Administrative Tools
2. Then go to Local Security Settings and click Software Restriction Policies
3. If there are no restrictions defined then right click and choose Software Restriction Policies node and then New Software Resitiction Policy
4. Then click Enforcement and select All users except local administrators
5. Now click OK to close and reboot your computer

Now you can try to install Chrome again.

Alternatively, try uninstalling Chrome and reinstalling it again, this will fix popular problems with your search engine, pop-ups, or Chrome updates.