The file size is approximately 150–180 MB. Save it to a familiar location (e.g., Downloads folder).
Before installing v2.05, ensure your development environment is compatible with this 2019 release: mplab xc8 compiler v2 05 download free
Subject: Availability and Download Procedure for Legacy Compiler Version 2.05 Vendor: Microchip Technology Inc. License Type: Freemium (Free "PRO" evaluation available; Permanent Free "Free" mode) MPLAB XC8 Compiler v2
Downloading the file is half the battle. Here is how to install it without breaking your existing newer versions. MPLAB X IDE: Version 2
Cause: You are using a very new MPLAB X IDE (v6.10+) which dropped support for compilers older than v2.10.
Solution: Downgrade MPLAB X IDE to version 5.45 or 5.50, which fully supports XC8 v2.05. You can download older IDE versions from the same Microchip archive.