For direct inclusion in your HTML, use the official jQuery CDN which hosts every version ever released, including:
For modern development workflows, you can install specific versions via package managers: npm install jquery@2.2.4
While the current stable version of jQuery has moved toward (and even the announcement of jQuery 4.0 ), many legacy projects still specifically require a jQuery 2 download for compatibility with older plugins or specific environments. Where to Download jQuery 2.x jquery 2 download
You can find historical versions, including the 2.x branch, at the jQuery Download Center .
Understanding why you might choose version 2 over others is essential for project stability. jQuery 1.x jQuery 2.x jQuery 3.x IE 6, 7, 8+ IE 9+ only IE 9+ only File Size Larger (Legacy hacks) Smaller/Faster Optimized/Modern Best For Legacy IE support Modern 2013-2016 apps Current web standards Status End-of-Life End-of-Life Maintained Important Security Warning jquery - NPM For direct inclusion in your HTML, use the
The safest way to acquire any version of jQuery is through official channels to avoid compromised files.
The final and most stable release of the 2.x line. jQuery 1
jQuery 2.x represented a pivotal shift in the evolution of the world's most popular JavaScript library. Released as a "modern web" alternative to the 1.x branch, it dropped support for legacy browsers like to achieve a smaller file size and faster performance.