Chrome’s built-in security features often identify EXE files as potentially unsafe, resulting in the message: This file is dangerous, so Chrome has blocked it. This security measure prevents accidental installation of malicious software, but it can also block legitimate files, such as trusted installers or drivers. Understanding how to bypass or adjust these settings allows you to download necessary files without compromising your system’s safety.

Method 1: Bypass Chrome’s Warning and Keep the EXE File

Step 1: Attempt to download the EXE file as usual. When Chrome blocks it, look for the notification at the bottom of the browser window or in the Downloads panel.

Step 2: Click the three vertical dots (⋮) next to the blocked download in the Downloads panel.

Step 3: Select Keep or Keep dangerous file from the menu. Chrome may prompt you with a warning about potential risks. Confirm your choice by clicking Keep anyway.

Step 4: Open the file from your Downloads folder. If Windows Defender or another antivirus program blocks the file, review the alert and only proceed if you are certain the file is safe and from a reputable source.

Method 2: Temporarily Disable Chrome Safe Browsing Protection

Safe Browsing in Chrome scans downloads for threats. Disabling it may reduce the number of blocked files, but it also lowers your protection against malicious sites and downloads. Only use this method if you fully trust the sources of your downloads, and remember to re-enable protection when finished.

Step 1: Click the three vertical dots (⋮) in the top-right corner of Chrome and select Settings.

Step 2: In the left sidebar, choose Privacy and security, then click Security.

Step 3: Under “Safe Browsing,” select No protection (not recommended). Chrome will warn you about the risks—acknowledge the warning to proceed.

Step 4: Download the EXE file. After completing your download, repeat Steps 1–3 and switch Safe Browsing back to Standard protection or Enhanced protection to restore your security level.

Method 3: Adjust Sync and Google Services Settings

Some users report that Chrome’s Sync and Google Services features contribute to aggressive download blocking, even when Safe Browsing is off. Disabling certain services can revert Chrome to showing a standard warning instead of outright blocking downloads.

Step 1: Open Chrome’s Settings and navigate to You and Google > Sync and Google services.

Step 2: Toggle off options such as Help improve Chrome’s features and performance and Make searches and browsing better. These settings may affect Chrome’s download behavior by limiting data sent to Google for analysis.

Step 3: Try downloading your EXE file again. Chrome should now show a warning with an option to keep the file, rather than blocking it completely.

Method 4: Check for Antivirus or Security Software Interference

Sometimes, the issue is not with Chrome, but with third-party antivirus or built-in Windows Defender settings. These programs can flag EXE files as threats and prevent their download or execution.

Step 1: Open your antivirus or security software and review recent security logs to see if the EXE file was flagged or quarantined.

Step 2: If you trust the file, add it to your antivirus program’s exclusion or whitelist list. Refer to your antivirus help documentation for exact steps, as the process varies by software.

Step 3: Temporarily disable real-time scanning only if absolutely necessary and only while downloading and opening the trusted file. Restore protection immediately after.

Additional Tips and Cautions

  • Always verify the source of any EXE file before bypassing security warnings. Download only from official websites or reputable vendors.
  • Be cautious when disabling security features, even temporarily. Restore them as soon as your download is complete.
  • If you repeatedly encounter issues with files from trusted sources (such as drivers from HP or Microsoft), consider reporting false positives to both Chrome and your antivirus vendor.
  • If Chrome blocks even legitimate files after all adjustments, try using another browser temporarily, but keep security risks in mind.

By following these steps, you can regain control over your downloads while maintaining a strong security posture. Adjust settings carefully and always prioritize your device’s safety when working around browser protections.