7 Ways to Fix Safari Not Downloading Files on iPhone and Mac

Quick Tips

• If Safari isn’t downloading files, start the solution hunt by checking your Wi-Fi’s stability.
• Ensure you’ve given permission to download files from the requisite website on your Mac.
• To enable permission, launch Safari Settings on Mac > Websites > Downloads from the left sidebar > choose Allow in the menu beside the website you wish to download from.

Basic Fixes

• Check network connection: Safari won’t download media or other files if the data connection on your iPhone or Mac is spotty. Do a speed test, reload the page, or check if your Mac has Wi-Fi issues.
• Check if the website is down: Safari can’t download the files if the website faces uptime issues. Visit Downdetector to confirm the problem. If there is, wait till the website is up and running.
• Disable Low Data mode: An active low data mode may interfere with the background download process on Safari. To disable it, go to Settings > Mobile Service > Primary > Low Data Mode.
• Update your devices: Updating can even out bugs. So, on both your Mac and iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update.

Fix 1: Use a VPN and Try Another Server

When we encountered an issue with Safari not downloading files on our iPhone, we used a VPN to connect to one of the US servers. The trick worked like a charm, and Safari completed the download process quickly. You can download any popular VPN app from the App Store and change your region.

Fix 2: Disable iCloud Private Relay

iCloud Private Relay is a part of iCloud+ and Apple One subscriptions on iPhone. The option is enabled by default to deliver a secure browsing experience. It hides your IP address and browsing activity in Safari and protects your unencrypted internet traffic from prying eyes.

On iPhone

You can temporarily disable iCloud Private Relay and try again.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone > go to your Profile.

Step 2: Tap iCloud > open Private Relay from the following menu > disable the toggle for Private Relay.

On Mac

Step 1: Open System Settings on Mac > go to your profile > select iCloud.

Step 2: Select Private Relay.

Step 3: Disable the toggle for Private Relay.

Fix 3: Corrupt File

Are you trying to download a corrupt file from Safari? You may face issues with downloading such files. You should avoid sketchy websites and use official sources to download files.

Fix 4: Force Quit Safari

You can force quit Safari on iPhone or Mac and try again. iPhone users can swipe up and hold from the bottom to open the recent apps menu. Swipe up on Safari to close it. Now, launch the browser and download the files again.

If you have a Mac, open Activity Monitor on Mac > select Safari > click the X mark at the top > launch Safari > download your files again.

Fix 5: Check iPhone and Mac Space

Insufficient storage on your iPhone or Mac can be the main reason behind download glitches on Safari. Here’s how to check your iPhone and Mac storage and take the required steps to free up space.

iPhone

Step 1: Open Settings > scroll to General > select iPhone Storage.

Check the detailed breakdown of app storage. If you have storage issues, clear unwanted storage or purchase an iCloud+ subscription.

Mac

Step 1: Go to System Settings > select Storage.

Step 2: Check your Mac storage. You can empty bin, store files in iCloud, or optimize storage to free up space.

Fix 6: Give Required Permission (Mac)

If your Mac’s settings don’t allow downloading files from Safari on Mac, you can’t download files. To fix this, tweak the Settings menu as follows.

Launch Safari Settings on Mac > move to the Websites menu > select Downloads from the left sidebar > choose Allow in the menu beside the website you wish to download from.

Fix 7: Try Safari Alternatives

If you missed it, Apple lets you change the default browser on your iPhone and Mac. Using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge as your daily driver is easier than ever. You can install your preferred browser from the App Store or the web and download files easily.