MacBook Won't Download Files: Causes and Tips for Quick Fixes

MacBook users sometimes face the problem of not being able to download files to the device. In this article, we will discuss the main reasons why MacBook does not download files to disk and also provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to solve this problem.

Why is my MacBook not downloading files

When you can't download files to your computer, among the most common problems are the following:

• Wi-Fi network problems;
• broadband connection problems;
• a glitch in Apple's servers;
• incorrect security or individual software settings;
• not enough memory space;
• browser cache clogging;
• the latest updates are not installed.

8 tips how to fix not downloading files on MacBook

We offer a detailed guide on how to fix the problem of download not working on Mac related to unstable downloading of files to the device. You can solve the problem on your own, even with minimal knowledge of computer specifics. It is enough to follow our tips and recommendations described below.

1. Checking the Wi-Fi and broadband network

Visit any web page, and if everything works correctly, the problem is not with the Wi-Fi network or broadband connection. Try resetting (off/on) the Wi-Fi on your MacBook. If that doesn’t help to solve the problem of the MacBook not downloading files, try to open the web page from another device. In case this doesn't help either, it's most likely a wireless problem.

If the indicators on your router light up normally, contact your internet provider to see if there are any problems with your broadband or the network in general.

Also: MacBook Not Connecting to Wi-Fi: 11 Ways to Fix It

2. Changing and/or updating your browser

If the Internet works but you have trouble downloading files in your browser, try changing it. If this does not solve the problem, check for software updates and install them if available. If the problem of the MacBook not downloading files persists, try to re-install the web browser completely.

3. Rebooting the device

Rebooting clears your device of temporary files, and on the latest models it also checks the boot disk. Rebooting your laptop is an effective way to fix the problem of the MacBook not downloading files to your computer's disk.

To reboot your MacBook, follow these steps:

1. Open the Apple menu in the upper right corner.
2. Select Restart.
3. Wait a few seconds for the notebook to shut down completely.
4. Press the Power button to turn the computer back on.

Also: How to Fix a Frozen MacBook: 8 Tips

4. Security settings

If you are trying to download software from the developer's official website but nothing works, it might be due to incorrect security settings.

To test and properly configure the device:

1. Open the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
2. Click the Privacy and Security tab.
3. Open the "Security" section and check if "App Store and Identified Developers" is checked.

5. Free disk space

It is possible that the problem occurs when you try to download a file that is larger than the remaining free disk space.

In that case, follow the below instructions:

1. Go to "System Settings" and select "Basic".
2. Open the Memory tab and check at the top of the window to see how much free space is available on your MacBook.
3. If there is not enough or the free space and file size are about the same, you will need to free up space.

For this, you can use CleanMyMac X, an app that helps you free up space, clean your MacBook, and improve your PC's performance.

To clear the disk:

1. Open CleanMyMac X and click Space Lens in the sidebar to visually assess which files take up a lot of disk space.
2. Use the app's functions to delete cache and other junk files.
3. Uninstall unnecessary programs using the Uninstaller option.
4. Use additional tools, such as Maintenance and Privacy, which can also help free up space and improve performance.

Remember, before deleting any files or applications, it is important to make sure that you really don't need them anymore.

Also: How to Clear System Data on MacBook

6. Checking the operation of servers

If you try to download a file from the App Store, Apple services, or iCloud and you can't do this, there may be a problem with Apple's servers. To check it, go to the special page with statuses and find the service from which you are trying to download a file. If there is a green dot in front of it, then the reason is not in it, and the service operates normally. Otherwise, you will have to wait for the server problem that causes MacBook not to download files to be fixed.

7. Installing updates

If you fail to download a file through a particular application, try to update it and try to download it again.

1. To check software downloaded from the App Store, open the App Store and go to the "Updates" section.
2. To check the applications that were downloaded from the developer's website, open the software and select "Check for updates".

If Safari does not work properly, it is recommended to check for macOS updates because the browser is updated with the operating system.

1. Open "System Settings", go to the "Basic" tab and click on "Software Update".
2. Wait for the verification to complete and follow the instructions to install the new OS version, if available.

8. Clearing the browser cache

Browser cache files interfere with downloads and cause various conflicts quite often. The clearing algorithm may differ depending on the browser, but usually, you can find this function in the "Security and Privacy" section.

Let's see how you can clear the cache in the most popular web browsers.

1. Safari - Go to "Settings" and open "Privacy". Click on "Manage Website Data" and after the data has been downloaded, click on "Delete All".
2. Chrome - click on the three dots to the right of the address bar and open the "Settings" section. Click on the "Privacy and Security" tab and select the "Clear browsing data" option.
3. Firefox - click on the three lines to the right of the address bar, open "Settings" and go to "Privacy and Security". Scroll down to "Cookies and Site Data" and click on "Clear Data".

If any browser extensions are installed, try to disable them one by one to see if that fixes the problem.

Your MacBook requires not only regular software updates but it also needs periodic maintenance. Timely replacement of failed parts is an important measure to keep your device running reliably and protect your confidential information.

On AppleParts website you will find original parts for different models of MacBooks. All parts have been tested, so they are guaranteed to be original and work according to the specifications declared by Apple.

If you're not sure you can replace the part yourself, order MacBook repair from Apple Parts by mail. Send us your device, wait for the diagnostic results, and pay the repair bill. Once the parts are replaced, you'll get your MacBook back within 1-2 working days.

Genuine Logic Board 3.5GHz i7 8GB 1TB (661-07703) A1706 2017