Basic Fixes
- Check internet connection: Check whether you have a stable internet connection on your desktop for downloading heavy files.
- Use Incognito Mode: Open Incognito Mode on your browser and then try to download Google Drive files.
- Update your browser: Install the latest version of your web browser to get rid of these issues.
- Try a different browser: A different browser means no preferences or extensions. Start with a clean slate.
Fix 1: Enable Third-Party Cookies
On your browser, you should enable third-party cookies which are meant to improve your browsing experience. Blocking them can sometimes cause issues like these. We are using Chrome browser as an example.
Open Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data > Allow cookies.
Fix 2: Clear Browser Cache
You should also try manually clearing temporary files of your browser like the cache files if you are still facing the same issue. Once done, log in using your Google account.
On Chrome
Step 1: Open Chrome > Settings.
Step 2: Under Privacy and security, click on Clear browsing data.
Step 3: Select the checkbox available next to Cached images and files. Uncheck others. Finally, hit the Clear data button.
On Safari
Open Safari > Settings > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All.
Tip: You can learn more about how to clear Chrome cache for one website.
Fix 3: Prevent Cross Tracking in Safari
If you are using the Safari browser on your Mac, we suggest disabling cross website tracking feature. It was suggested by users on Reddit and it seemed to worked for them.
Open Safari > Settings > Privacy > Disable cross-site tracking.
Fix 4: Reset Google Chrome Settings
Sometimes, the issue could be due to an extension or incorrect settings. So resetting Chrome will fix it.
Open Chrome > Settings > Reset > Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings.
Alternative: Use Google Drive Desktop App
You can install the Google Drive desktop app if nothing works out. The app installs on your desktop and lets you take control of your files.
Was this helpful?
Last updated on 05 July, 2024
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