Accessing Previously Downloaded Files via a Web Browser

Usually after a file or program is downloaded we do not need to download it again.  However, there are plenty of situations when regaining access to a downloaded item would be helpful.  When this happens, accessing the file from the original web browser can be more efficient than locating the original source and re-downloading the file.  Some examples of when it is helpful to access previously downloaded files are if:

• The first copy was overwritten without the original version being saved
• The file was deleted on accident
• The file is not accessible from the place it was originally downloaded from
• The original download location was not a normally visited site, and therefore finding it again would be time consuming and difficult

Listed below are steps for accessing previously downloaded files using Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Internet Explorer web browsers.

Chrome

1. Open the web browser.
2. In the upper right corner, click on the menu button (3 stacked lines), and select "Downloads".  
   


3. A new tab with previously downloaded files including the original download date will open.





4. Click on a file to open or save it.

Firefox

1. Open the web browser.
2. In the upper right corner, click on the down arrow to view current and previous downloads.  This window shows the progress of any items currently downloading as well as some of the most recent.
   
   
   
   
   
3. To view all downloads, click the "Show all Downloads" link.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Double-click any file from the Library window showing all downloads to open or save the file.

Safari

1. Open finder and click on Downloads in the Favorites list.
2. All downloads will be listed in the right pane.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Double click any file to open it.

Internet Explorer

1. Open the web browser.
2. In the upper right corner click on the cog to access settings and select "View downloads".  
   
   
   
3. A new window showing all the downloads will open.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Click on Open to the right of any file or select "Open with" in the drop down menu to open any file.

Regardless of why a file needs to be downloaded a second time, accessing previously downloaded files at a later time is quick and easy from any of the popular browsers.  Accessing the file from the browser saves time and is more efficient than locating the original file all over again.  This is especially helpful when the file was downloaded from an uncommon site or something from a search.

As always, stay focused and utilize as many tech shortcuts as you can!

Enjoy this post? Subscribe to our Blog