How to install Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime in Windows 7

Microsoft Edge Web View 2 Runtime is an essential component for applications that use WebView2 to host web content in Windows applications. However, support for Windows 7 has limitations.

As of December 2022, Microsoft announced that the WebView2 Runtime for Windows 7 would be limited to version 109.0.1518.140, which is the last version compatible with Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1. After this version, no further updates or support will be provided for these operating systems.

In addition, since Microsoft has officially stopped supporting Windows 7 and Windows 8, it means that we cannot install Web View 2 Runtime through Windows automatic update. So, how do we install the web view 2 runtime for Windows 7?

Step 1. Copy this link and paste it into the browser to open it. 

https://developer.microsoft.com/microsoft-edge/webview2/consumer/

Step 2. Click the "Go to page" button, which will open a new page. 

You will see 3 options in the "Download the WebView2 Runtime" section, "Evergreen Bootstrapper", "Evergreen Standalone Installer", and "Fixed Version". 

Step 3. Click the Download button for "Evergreen Bootstrapper" and then click "Accept and Download". This file is small, so the download will be completed quickly.

Step 4. Open the file called Microsoft Edge Webview2 Setup, which is usually saved in your Downloads folder.

This is an installer that automatically downloads and installs the latest webview2 runtime version that is compatible with your system. The time required for the download depends on your network speed, so we just need to wait patiently.

OK, the installation is complete, let's see which version of webview2 runtime is installed. Click the Start icon in the lower left corner, and then click Control Panel. Click “Uninstall a program”. 

Here, the version number is 109.0.1518.140, which is indeed the latest version compatible with Windows 7.