How to Install LibreWolf on Windows
Overview: installer vs portable vs package manager
There are three common ways to run LibreWolf on Windows: the official installer, the portable build and the package-manager install (winget). The installer is the best choice for most users — it creates shortcuts, registers file associations and places the application in Program Files with automatic update support on supported setups. The portable build is ideal for users who want no-install, no-admin usage. If you prefer reproducible, scripted installs across many machines, use the winget package.
Before you install
1) Always download from the Download page and verify the SHA256 checksum. 2) Close other browsers and save any important session data. 3) On corporate or locked-down machines, get the appropriate approvals — portable builds can sometimes reduce friction because they don’t require admin rights.
Step-by-step: standard installer (recommended)
This walk-through assumes you downloaded the file from the official mirror. If you are using the installer for the first time, follow these steps to complete a safe installation:
- Run the downloaded EXE (right-click & Run as administrator if needed).
- When the installer opens, choose the target folder (default is Program Files) and accept the license terms if you agree.
- Decide whether to create desktop and Start Menu shortcuts. Recommended for everyday users.
- Finish installation and run LibreWolf. Confirm the version in menu > Help > About if you need to verify the installed version.
Silent / unattended installs (for sysadmins)
Silent installs are useful when deploying LibreWolf across multiple machines. The installer supports standard Windows installer flags. Example command (PowerShell / command line):
librewolf-150.0.1-1-windows-x86_64-setup.exe /S
Notes: /S triggers a silent setup for many NSIS-based installers; test on a local VM before large-scale rollout. For custom deployments, wrap the installer call in a script and use configuration management tools.
Install via winget
If you prefer package-manager installs, winget provides a reproducible approach. See the dedicated winget guide for the official package ID and manifest details — winget is recommended for automated setups and update orchestration.
Using the portable build
The portable build runs from a single folder (USB or local). To use it, download the portable archive from the Download page, extract to your chosen folder and run the LibreWolf executable inside. The portable version keeps your existing Windows user profile separate and does not write to Program Files.
Verifying checksums and signatures
Before running any binary, verify the SHA256 checksum on the Download page. Use PowerShell or certutil to confirm the checksum matches the official value. If a signature file or PGP signature is provided on the release page, verify it as an extra trust step.
Troubleshooting common install problems
Problem: "Installer blocked by SmartScreen" — Remedy: choose "More info" and allow the installer if you trust the source, or use the portable build as fallback. Problem: "Missing dependencies" — ensure Windows is updated and required runtime components are present. For unresolved issues see Troubleshooting.
Post-install privacy & telemetry settings
LibreWolf ships with telemetry disabled by default. Still, review the Telemetry page to understand what (if anything) might be enabled and how to change settings. If you require a hardened policy for many installs, prepare a configuration template to apply after installation.