Fixed! Why & How Chrome Downloads Not Working

Having issues with downloads in Google Chrome? You're not alone. Despite being the most popular browser, Chrome users often face download failures or stuck downloads. This problem can occur on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, or iOS. Fortunately, there are simple troubleshooting steps to resolve these issues. In this article, we will outline some of the top reasons for chrome downloads not working and actionable solutions to try. With a few tweaks, you should be able to save files hassle-free again.

Part 1. Why is Chrome Downloads Not Working?

One common error message you may encounter in Chrome is "File not available" or "File wasnt available on site." This typically occurs when the site you are trying to download a file from has removed or changed the location of that file.

Here are a few other reasons Chrome won't download files. If you have an unstable internet connection, it can interrupt or prevent downloads. Check that your internet is working properly. Downloads require available storage space on your device. Make sure you have enough free disk space.

Using an old version of Chrome can lead to compatibility issues and bugs. Update to the latest Chrome version. Some Chrome extensions have been known to cause download problems and are unable to download. Try disabling your extensions.

Malicious software could be blocking your ability to download files. Run an antivirus scan to check for infections. The website you are downloading from may be having technical difficulties or server issues and Chrome will not download files. Try downloading from a different site.

Part 2. Solutions: What to Do When Chrome Won't Download Files?

Downloads not working on Chrome? Here are some potential solutions when chrome downloads not working:

Check for any internet connectivity issues and restart your router/modem. Make sure Chrome is up-to-date.
Try downloading in an incognito window. If it works there, it's an extension or setting causing the issue in your main browser.
Temporarily disable your antivirus program. Some security software can block downloads.
Make sure you have enough storage space for the download. Chrome may not start large downloads if there's insufficient space.
Clear your browser cache and cookies. Too much-cached data can interfere with downloads.
Try changing your Chrome profile or resetting Chrome to default settings if it's a browser-specific issue.
Switch to a different DNS server on your network connection. Some ISPs block certain downloads.
Use a download manager extension instead of directly downloading if that works better.
As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall Chrome if nothing else resolves it.

Part 3. Bonus-Tip: How to Repair Corrupted Videos Downloaded?

Files not downloading in Chrome? Downloading videos can sometimes lead to corrupted or low-quality files, especially if there are issues with the download process in Chrome.

Luckily, HitPaw Video Enhancer supports to repair corrupted videos automatically. No matter what corrupts your video, just upload it, HitPaw Video Enhancer will automatically detect and fix it!

Features of HitPaw Video Enhancer

Automatically detect and repair corrupted videos
Cloud acceleration, no long waiting times
Repair videos while maintaining original quality
No ads, no watermarks, free trial available
Continuous upgrades and updates to restore the highest video quality

Steps of Using HitPaw Video Enhancer

Step 1:Download and install the software on your Windows or Mac computer.
Step 2:Add the video file by dragging and dropping it into the program.
Step 3:After importing your video, HitPaw Video Enhancer will start detect and repair your video. With Cloud acceleration, videos will be restored quickly.
Step 4:Click "Preview" to see the enhancements applied in real time. Export the high-quality video.

Part 4. FAQs of Downloads Not Working on Chrome

Q1. Why are my downloads not opening?

A1. Downloads may not open if the Windows File Explorer process has crashed or become unresponsive. This can prevent Chrome from being able to access the downloads folder.

Try restarting the File Explorer task in Task Manager to reset it. You can access Task Manager by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting it.

Look for Windows Explorer under Processes, right-click it, and choose Restart. This should allow Chrome access to the downloads folder again so files open properly.

Q2. Why some files are not opening?

A2. There are several common reasons a downloaded file may fail to open after it completes downloading in Chrome. The file could be corrupted and unreadable. Media files like videos or music may be in a format not natively supported by your apps.

Your security software, like antivirus, may be blocking certain file types from running. Or the application you normally use to open that type of file could be damaged or uninstalled incorrectly.

Trying a different media player app or reinstalling the associated program may help make unopenable files work again.

Q3. Why is my Mac blocking downloads?

A3. On Macs, Safari has several built-in protections that may block file downloads or cause incomplete transfers.

This can happen if your storage is full, the internet connection is interrupted, you have outdated OS or Safari versions, or interfering plugins/extensions are installed. Check your available storage space and clear up a room if needed.

Make sure your Mac OS and Safari are fully updated. Try disabling any Safari extensions to isolate if one is causing download blocking, then remove any problematic plugins.

Final Thoughts

Chrome downloads not working can be frustrating, but there are many potential fixes. Start with the easiest solutions, like checking your connection, browser updates, and available storage space.

For any media files or videos that may have been corrupted or damaged during problematic Chrome downloads, we highly recommend using HitPaw Video Enhancer.

The intuitive interface allows anyone to simply import, edit, preview, and export high quality videos in just minutes. Fixing grainy or pixelated downloads and enjoying them again is made possible with HitPaw Video Enhancer.

Select the product rating：

Join the discussion and share your voice here