FIX: Failed – Download error in Google Chrome
- Google Chrome is a great browser, but even the best browsers have issues.
- Many users reported various errors and one of them is Failed – network error Chrome error.
- To fix this issue, make sure that your security settings aren’t interfering with Google Chrome.
- This article is a part of our Chrome hub, so be sure to visit the hub for more in-depth solutions.
Google Chrome is one of the most popular browsers out there. It’s used daily by millions of people, and it’s constantly being developed and improved.
Despite all that, Chrome doesn’t come without errors. One of the most common issues reported by users is Failed- Download error.
In most cases, this error is caused by malware, so you should try using a dedicated tool to scan your device. If this doesn’t fix your problem, change the antivirus settings, or modify the Windows Attachment Manager restrictions.
Today we will focus on how to get rid of this problem once and for all.
How do I fix network errors blocking file download on Chrome?
1. Try the download in Opera
This error often appears when you try to download a certain file from a certain website, but it can also be spread across multiple file downloads.
The first thing you need to do is to check the download in another browser. In this way, you can establish if the issue is with the file or if it’s specific to Chrome.
If the download works without any problem in other browsers, then the error is specific to Chrome. You’ll either have to continue troubleshooting Chrome, or switch to the error-free browser for good.
We recommend trying to download the files in Opera, a lightweight, fast, and highly customizable browser.
You can download Opera using the button below (it only takes a couple of minutes). Actually, you can switch from Chrome to Opera similarly easy.
To complete the transition aspect, in Opera’s Settings area you’ll find a Synchronization option. This allows you to import bookmarks, pages, and other data from your default browser.
The transfer time is extremely fast. Further on, you can continue to customize the browser to your needs, by adding icons, sidebars, workspaces, and other extensions.
Opera
Try Opera to convince yourself of its speedy processes that allow you to download any file within seconds.2. Check your security settings
- Open the antivirus.
- Go to Setting.
- Find Advanced setup, Additional, or Components. (Depending on your antivirus software)
- You will see HTTPS scanning or Encrypted connection scanning. Uncheck it.
- Now try downloading the file.
If this doesn’t solve the problem, perform a Cleanup to remove harmful software:
- Open Chrome.
- Go to Settings > scroll all the way down and click Advanced.
- Scroll down and click Clean up computer.
- Hit Find and wait for the process to finish.
- After that, check if the download works.
Change settings for Windows Attachment Manager
- In the search bar type inetcpl.cpl and hit Enter.
- The Internet Proprieties window will appear. Choose the Security tab.
- In the Select a zone to view or change security settings click on Internet and then Custom level…
- Scroll down to Downloads > Miscellaneous > Launching applications and unsafe files and check Enable.
- Hit OK and try to download your file.
Windows Attachment Manager comes with Windows 10 and acts as a guard dog, protecting your PC from malware or unwanted software.
If Windows Attachment Manager decides that the file you are trying to download is not secure, it will automatically block the action.
Don’t forget to revert back to your initial settings after you download the file. Allowing unsafe apps and files on your PC can be harmful.
3. Other general fixes
In the end, you can try some more simpler solutions that don’t always work, but they just might in your case:
- Use Incognito mode in Google Chrome.
- Reset Chrome settings.
- Remove Chrome extensions
- Install the latest Network Drivers.
- Check for Chrome updates.
- Reinstall Google Chrome.
We hope that one of the solutions helped you get past the Failed – Download Error message and you successfully got the files you need.
If you have any more questions or solutions regarding this problem, don’t hesitate to reach for the comments section below.
FAQ: Learn more about Google Chrome
- Why are my downloads failing on Chrome?
Downloads can fail for numerous reasons, but the most likely is your security settings in your antivirus or firewall.
- Why is Chrome blocking my downloads?
If Chrome is blocking your downloads, it’s possible that you’re downloading them from a suspicious source. But this is a detail that you can adjust.
- How do I fix Google Chrome network failed?
To fix network failed error in Chrome, check your security settings, or remove the problematic extensions.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published in May 2019 and was revamped and updated in December 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.