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KMY Browser – A Lightweight Native Windows Web Browser Built with C++

Krishnamohan Yagneswaran
Tech Blog

Overview

KMY Browser is a lightweight, native Windows desktop web browser built from the ground up using C++ (Win32 API) and Microsoft WebView2.
The primary goal of this project is simple: build a fast, clean, no-nonsense browser without unnecessary abstractions, heavy frameworks, or hidden tracking layers.

Unlike many modern desktop browsers that rely on Electron or large cross-platform runtimes, KMY Browser embraces a true native Windows approach. This results in lower memory usage, faster startup times, and tighter integration with the Windows operating system.

KMY Browser is created and maintained by me as an indie developer project, focused on learning, performance, and clean software engineering principles.


Why KMY Browser Exists

Modern browsers often suffer from:

  • High memory consumption
  • Heavy background services
  • Large binary sizes
  • Over-engineered UI layers
  • Unwanted tracking and telemetry

KMY Browser was created to explore an alternative path:

  • Native performance
  • Minimal UI
  • Clear, readable C++ code
  • No Electron
  • No tracking

Technology Stack

Core Technologies

  • C++ (Win32 API)
    Used for creating the native Windows application, window management, message loop, and UI control.

  • Microsoft WebView2
    Provides modern web rendering using the installed Edge (Chromium) engine, without bundling an entire browser runtime.


Key Features

  • Fast startup and low overhead
  • Native Win32 window (no Electron)
  • Modern web rendering via WebView2
  • Clean and minimal UI
  • No built-in tracking
  • Simple, understandable codebase
  • Ideal for learning Win32 + WebView2 integration

Who This Browser Is For

KMY Browser is ideal for:

  • C++ developers exploring Win32 desktop development
  • Students learning native Windows programming
  • Indie developers who want lightweight tools
  • Privacy-conscious users
  • Software engineers interested in browser architecture

Open Source & Learning-Focused

This project is fully open source and hosted on GitHub for learning, experimentation, and customization.


Download & Source Code

Download KMY Browser from GitHub:
https://github.com/Krishnamohan33/KMY-Browser


GitHub Topics

browser, windows, win32, c-plus-plus, webview2, native-app, lightweight, desktop-application, indie-dev, software-engineering, privacy-friendly


Support the Creator

If you have got even 1 dollar to support future projects, please consider donating:

https://www.krishnamohanproductions.com/donate

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