How to Download a Folder from GitHub: 3 Easy Methods

Figuring out how to download a folder GitHub style can be tricky since the platform usually gives you the whole project. This guide will walk you through three easy methods to grab only the folders or files you need.

How to Download a GitHub Folder?

1. Use the GitHub Web Interface

This method is the simplest and it requires just your browser.

1. Open the repository in your browser.
2. Navigate to the folder you want.
3. Click the green Code button and select Download ZIP.
   
4. Extract the ZIP file on your computer.

Keep in mind this will download the entire repository, not just one folder. For more control over your projects, you can also learn how to clone a repository in GitHub.

2. Use an Online Folder Downloader

Some users prefer specialized tools for this, and you can use one by following these steps:

1. Visit the GitHub Directory Download.
2. Copy the URL of the GitHub folder.
3. Paste it into the tool’s website.
   
4. Click Download to get the folder as a ZIP file.

This method saves time when you do not need the rest of the files.

3. Use Git with Sparse Checkout

If you’re a GitHub expert, this command line solution might be perfect for you:

1. Open your terminal and clone the repository: git clone <repository-url> cd <repository-name>
2. Enable sparse checkout: git sparse-checkout init --cone git sparse-checkout set <folder-name>
3. Git will then download only the folder you specified.

This option is best for working with large repositories. If you are working with branches, you may also want to know how to merge branches in GitHub.

For a complete step by step guide on fixing issues that may appear during merges, check how to resolve conflicts in GitHub.

After cloning and fetching only the needed folder with sparse checkout, complete your collaboration workflow by learning how to approve a pull request on GitHub.

FAQs

Conclusion

Now you know the three main ways to download a folder from GitHub. The web interface is quick for full projects, online tools work great when you just need one folder, and sparse checkout is the most efficient choice for advanced users. If you manage repositories often, you might also find it useful to learn how to delete a branch in GitHub.

To keep your repository tidy after downloading files, see this guide on how to create a folder in GitHub.