How to Prevent Chrome from Requesting Passwords When Scanning ZIP and RAR Files

2024/02/18

Key Notes

Check download source for security (HTTPS recommended).
Adjust Safe Browsing settings to avoid unnecessary prompts.
Use Registry Editor to manage deep scanning preferences.

Stop Chrome from Asking for Passwords When Downloading ZIP and RAR Files

Are you tired of Google Chrome requesting passwords each time you attempt to download ZIP and RAR files? Learn effective solutions to bypass these prompts while ensuring safe downloads.

How to Prevent Chrome from Requesting Passwords for ZIP and RAR Files

When attempting to download password-protected ZIP or RAR files, Chrome may prompt you for passwords due to its security protocols. The following methods will help you circumvent these interruptions.

Step 1: Ensure Downloads are from HTTPS Websites

Files downloaded from HTTP sites may hold risks, as these sites lack the encryption offered by HTTPS protocols. Ensure that your downloads come from secure sources to minimize potential issues with Chrome asking for passwords.

Pro Tip: Always prefer sites utilizing HTTPS for enhanced data security.

Step 2: Modify Chrome’s Safe Browsing Settings

If you trust the ZIP or RAR file you’re downloading, consider temporarily disabling the Safe Browsing feature. However, proceed with caution, as this may reduce your browsing security.

To disable Safe Browsing in Chrome:

Open Chrome and click the three dots in the upper right corner, then select Settings.
Navigate to the Privacy and security tab.
Click on Security.
Find Safe Browsing and select No protection (not recommended).
Confirm by clicking Turn off in the warning prompt. Remember to re-enable it after your download.

Pro Tip: Revert settings immediately after your download to maintain browsing security.

Step 3: Disable Deep Scanning via Registry Editor

If you want to keep Safe Browsing enabled but avoid password prompts, you can disable deep scanning using the Registry Editor by following these steps:

Open the Registry Editor and navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Policies

Right-click and select New > Key and name it Google. Following that, create another key named Chrome under the Google folder. Right-click the Chrome folder, choose DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it SafeBrowsingDeepScanningEnabled, and set the Value data to 0. Click OK and restart Chrome.

Now, Chrome should not prompt for passwords when working with ZIP and RAR files.

Additional Tips

Ensure the reliability of the source before downloading files.
View download reports in Chrome for suspicious files.
Keep your Chrome browser updated to the latest version for better security features.

Summary

This guide presented various methods to stop Google Chrome from requesting passwords while downloading ZIP and RAR files. Utilizing HTTPS, adjusting Safe Browsing settings, and disabling deep scanning in the Registry Editor are effective solutions.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy an uninterrupted downloading experience with Chrome, while still maintaining a level of security. Remember to reinstate any security settings after completing your downloads to protect your system.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why does Chrome block ZIP files?

Chrome may block ZIP files due to its security features, especially if the source is deemed unsecured or untrustworthy.

How do I allow Chrome to download ZIP files?

If Chrome identifies a file as legitimate, you can click Keep or choose to continue downloading by bypassing its prompts.