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Forum Discussion
Why can't I download files and folders from Dropbox to my computer?
I am new!
this system as presently experienced is worthless ---so it can't be right? Can't download any folder or file unless through email
1)don't you have simple step by step instructions to download entire folder or pic without going through email
2)once email pic is received, there is no way to down load it --only drag to desktop giving an unacceptable file of 160kb per pic
where do i find instructions?
Hey Korky K. ,
Thanks for reaching out!
The "Downloads" folder is a default one where all the downloads you initiate from your browser go to. This is specific to your browser (and computer) settings and is not related to Dropbox.
There are ways to change the default location of your (browser's) downloads depending on the one you use and you should be able to find more about how to do this using a web search. The option to change this can usually be found in your browser's preferences or advanced settings.
I hope this helps!
- Ed
Dropbox Staff
Hi there
Sorry for the delay - are you still having issues?
my problem is simpler-can't download MP4s..they are there in the dropbox list but the option to download is not available. ISN'T THIS THE BASIC FUNCTION OF DROPBOX??!! WTF?
- Ed
Hi William
For large files I'd advise you use the desktop client so it can sync smoothly with your computer.
Aside from using the Dropbox desktop client, what is the best way to download a file to my computer from the web client?
There is no obvious choice. I used to right-click and "download file" was an option.
I have clients that prefer to attach documents via email, and are not comfortable using share links, etc... with people they send files to.
Thanks!
- JohnDropbox
Hi guys,
The reason the download option doesn't appear and is replaced by the "Open" option is because these files are already on your computer. This is because you have the Dropbox software on your computer and these files are already in your Dropbox folder.
So if you press "Open" the folder will open on your computer. This saves you having to download a file that is already on your computer.
- But they are older version on one computer versus another - and if you wan to download a file quickly versus going through the pain of syncing then there is no option. Useless. How on earth is losing "Download" a good idea? Imagine - the most basic function plus there is the issue that certain file types cannot be opened by dropbox.
- Mark
Super User II
Download is still there Terence. Simply press the button that says 'Download' or, if necessary the [...] and THEN download.
If you see open then what is happening is Dropbox KNOWS that file is available on your computer and so it is saying 'we will open it locally for you' or 'via the website'
It appears "Download" is back now.
Thanks Ezio, it makes sense to open the file too, but I have some clients that cannot seem to wrap their heads around how Dropbox works and they were looking for an easy way to (re)download the file from the browser so they could attach to an email and were struggling finding a way to do that.
It's possible these are the same non-tech people that struggle understanding how Finder/Explorer works and may never understand how to organize files on a computer. :) I'm not sure what could be done to educate them.
Please sos! I am desperately trying to download a wave file into my work software from Dropbox. It doesn't give me the download option, as it used to, so that I could select and download into my specific work software! That the hell??? Is there anyway I can get the download function back? And why did it change all of a sudden???!!!!
i want the option to download ANY file also. it seems really inconsistent. Im sure I used to be able to do this to any file. There are times when dropbox "thinks" the file its on my pc but it really isnt. Like when ive paused syncing, then forgotten its paused and broken a file. To revert and open previous version requires me to sync heaps of data
Australian internet means sometimes i cant work on the file i want. 1-2mb a second max in sydney on ADSL2+I can't seem to download a file I received through Dropbox. It only allows me to copy it and then it won't let me paste it anywhere.
