Why Professionals Choose Chrome on macOS

Updated on June 27, 2025, by ITarian

how to download chrome on mac

Want to enhance your browsing experience without compromising speed or security? Whether you’re a CEO, IT leader, or security analyst, learning how to download Chrome on Mac is a must. Chrome remains one of the most trusted browsers worldwide, offering fast performance, robust extension support, and built-in Google security features.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from downloading the Chrome DMG file for Mac to completing a secure installation. We’ll also address best practices and security tips for high-stakes users.

Apple’s Safari browser is sleek, but Chrome is a powerhouse when it comes to cross-platform compatibility, productivity extensions, and cybersecurity monitoring.

Benefits of Google Chrome for Professionals:

  • Access to thousands of verified Chrome extensions

  • Seamless integration with enterprise G Suite tools

  • Frequent security updates from Google

  • Advanced dev tools and network monitoring

  • Ideal for remote work, virtualization, and multi-platform use

For IT teams and business professionals, Chrome makes secure and scalable browsing easy across devices and networks.

Step-by-Step: How to Download Chrome on Mac

Let’s get right into the installation process. The steps are straightforward and typically take under 5 minutes.

1. Visit the Official Chrome Website

Navigate to:
https://www.google.com/chrome

Click the Download Chrome button. It automatically detects your macOS version and starts downloading the Chrome DMG file for Mac.

2. Open the Chrome DMG File

Once the file is downloaded:

  • Go to your Downloads folder

  • Double-click on the file named something like googlechrome.dmg

This mounts the Chrome installer.

3. Drag Chrome to Applications

You’ll see a window showing the Chrome icon and an Applications folder icon.

  • Drag and drop the Chrome icon into Applications

This installs the browser system-wide, making it available to all user accounts.

4. Launch Google Chrome

Navigate to:

  • Finder > Applications > Google Chrome

Double-click to open it for the first time. macOS might show a security prompt—click Open to proceed.

Install Google Chrome on Mac with Admin Rights

If you’re installing Chrome on a corporate Mac:

  • You might need admin credentials to authorize the drag-and-drop installation.

  • If using MDM (Mobile Device Management), Chrome can also be pushed remotely.

  • IT managers should verify checksum or use signed installers for compliance.

Download Chrome for macOS (Intel vs Apple Silicon)

Google offers separate binaries based on Mac chip architecture.

How to Check Your Mac’s Chip:

  1. Click the Apple logo > About This Mac

  2. Look for the chip name (e.g., Apple M1, Intel)

When downloading, Google auto-selects the right version. However, you can manually choose:

  • Chrome for Intel-based Macs

  • Chrome for Apple Silicon (M1, M2, etc.)

This ensures optimal performance and compatibility.

Security Tips for Chrome on Mac

Especially for security professionals, these tips enhance protection:

  • Turn on Safe Browsing in Chrome Settings

  • Disable third-party cookies for enhanced privacy

  • Regularly clear browsing data and site permissions

  • Use Google Password Manager with alerts for compromised credentials

  • Install the Itarian endpoint protection extension if applicable

Also, consider setting Chrome profiles for work and personal accounts—keeping data and extensions siloed.

Alternatives for IT Teams: Remote Deployment

Enterprise users can benefit from remote provisioning. Here’s how:

  • Use Google Chrome Enterprise Bundle

  • Deploy via Jamf, Kandji, or Intune on managed macOS devices

  • Pre-configure bookmarks, extensions, and homepages

  • Enable forced sign-in and sync policies

This is especially effective for companies onboarding multiple devices or managing remote employees.

FAQs: How to Download Chrome on Mac

1. Is it safe to download Chrome from a third-party site?

No. Always download Chrome from google.com/chrome to avoid tampered or malicious versions.

2. What is the Chrome DMG file for Mac?

It’s the disk image file used to install Chrome on macOS. Double-clicking it mounts an installer that lets you drag Chrome to Applications.

3. Can I use Chrome on both Intel and M1 Macs?

Yes, but make sure you download the correct version optimized for your architecture.

4. Do I need an admin password to install Chrome?

Usually, yes—especially if installing for all users. For personal devices, dragging to Applications may not prompt for credentials.

5. Can I import my bookmarks and settings from Safari?

Yes. When you first open Chrome, it will ask if you want to import data from Safari or another browser.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to download Chrome on Mac is simple—but doing it right ensures better performance and airtight security. Whether you’re leading IT infrastructure or working from a high-stakes executive dashboard, Chrome delivers the tools and safety you need to stay agile.

Secure your browsing experience and boost productivity today.
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