Zen Browser Official Download
About Zen Browser
Zen Browser is a free, open-source browser that first appeared in 2024. It is a modified version of Firefox released under the MPL-2.0 license, and its source code is hosted on GitHub in the zen-browser/desktop repository. Its slogan promises "a calmer internet." While keeping Firefox's privacy protections and extension ecosystem, Zen redesigns the interface, moves tabs into a sidebar and adds a range of productivity features. Many of its design ideas resemble those of the Arc browser.
On Windows, Zen's Workspaces feature lets you keep tabs for different projects or topics apart and display only one group at a time, switching between them with a single click. Tabs are arranged vertically in the sidebar, and you can pin tabs within a workspace so the pages you use most are always at hand. The layout is designed for people who keep many tabs open and find a single crowded tab strip hard to manage.
Several other features are aimed at making the most of the screen. Compact mode automatically hides the tab bar and toolbar when you are not using them, leaving as much room as possible for the web page itself. Glance lets you quickly preview a link or a frequently used tab without disrupting the page you are reading. Split view shows two tabs side by side in one window, which is handy when comparing information or working from reference material. For deeper personalization, Zen Mods offers community themes and add-ons that can substantially change the look of the interface.
Because Zen is built on Firefox, it can install Firefox extensions and continues to be updated in step with new Firefox versions. That foundation also means it inherits Firefox's privacy protections rather than relying on a separate engine, so people moving over from Firefox keep familiar extensions while gaining a different way of organizing their browsing.
It is worth noting that the developers still label Zen as being in beta, so individual features may have problems. That makes it best suited to users who enjoy trying new software and like a sidebar layout. If you find the traditional row of tabs across the top of a browser too crowded, Zen is well worth a try.
Key features
- Workspaces for grouping tabs
- Compact Mode hides toolbars
- Glance quick previews
- Split View for two tabs side by side
- Vertical sidebar tabs
- Zen Mods customization
- Firefox add-on support
Official downloads
The SHA256 comes from the GitHub Release asset digest, so you can verify the file yourself. How to verify
The link points to the app’s official release channel; appwl does not rehost or modify files.
How to install
“Windows protected your PC”
SmartScreen shows this for apps without a paid signature. Click “More info”, then “Run anyway”.
Antivirus blocks it
Open-source apps are often flagged because they aren’t commercially signed. Check the SHA256 first, then allow it in your antivirus.
Won’t start, or a DLL is missing
Usually a missing runtime. Install Microsoft’s Visual C++ Redistributable (x64) and the .NET Desktop Runtime, then try again.
Check the file
Run this in Command Prompt and compare the result with the SHA256 listed for the cloud file:
certutil -hashfile "%USERPROFILE%\Downloads\file-name" SHA256Alternatives
Firefox
Brave
Google Chrome
Microsoft Edge
Changelog
Release notes
FAQ
How do I download Zen Browser?
Zen Browser is downloaded from its official channel: the “Official download” button on this page opens the official release page (github.com).
Is Zen Browser free?
Zen Browser license: MPL-2.0. appwl only lists official builds and charges nothing for downloads.
Which systems does Zen Browser support?
This page offers Zen Browser for Windows, version 1.24b.
Is Zen Browser from appwl safe?
appwl only lists official releases with their version and date. You can verify the SHA256 using the install tips on this page.