How to Change Microsoft Teams Download Location
You can change where Microsoft Teams saves downloaded files, but only for the desktop app, and it’s not always straightforward. The web version works differently.
Microsoft Teams is a popular tool for work and school that normally puts all downloads into your computer’s default Downloads folder. This is usually found at 📁C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Downloads.
By changing this setting, you can send Teams files to a different folder, such as one for a specific project or even a drive outside your main C: drive. This makes it easier to manage your files and keeps your main Downloads folder from getting too full.
Change the Microsoft Teams download location by going to Settings, then Files and links, and clicking the Change button under Downloads. Select your desired folder to save files directly to a new location. This setting applies only to the Teams desktop app.
How to Change Teams Download Location
You can change where Microsoft Teams saves downloaded files by adjusting a setting within the app. This lets you pick a different folder on your computer for all your Teams downloads, keeping things organised as you prefer.
1. Open the Microsoft Teams app.
2. Click the Settings and more (…) icon near your profile picture.
3. Select Settings from the menu.
4. Click the Files and links tab on the left.
5. Under the Downloads section, click the Change button.
6. Pick your preferred folder and click Select Folder.
Browser vs. Desktop Client Differences
The Teams desktop app and the web browser version handle downloads differently; changing the download location in one won't affect the other.
On macOS, the default download location for Teams files is typically your Downloads folder. To change this for the desktop app, follow the same steps as for Windows.
Latest Update
The Teams desktop app and the web browser version handle downloads differently; changing the download location in one won't affect the other. For the web version, you must change the download location within your browser's settings.
Troubleshooting Permission Issues
Troubleshooting Permission Issues
If you're having trouble changing your Teams download location, it's often because of permission issues with certain folders.
Syncing with OneDrive and SharePoint
Microsoft Teams stores files in SharePoint or OneDrive, and downloading them creates a local copy on your computer.
The default download location for the Teams desktop client on Windows is usually C:\Users\\Downloads. For macOS, it's typically /Users//Downloads.
Comparison Table: Download Behavior
| Platform | Control Method |
|---|---|
| Teams Desktop App | Teams Settings Menu |
| Web Browser | Browser Download Settings |
| Mobile App | System File Manager |
Summary
Changing your Teams download location helps you stay organized. You can move files to a secondary drive or a specific project folder to save space on your main drive. Remember that the desktop app and web browsers manage files differently. For more official guidance, visit the Microsoft Support website.
What's new
- Teams now supports setting a custom download location directly within the app settings for the desktop client.
- Previous versions required workarounds or relied solely on browser settings for web downloads.
Can I set a different download location for each channel?
No, Microsoft Teams currently only allows you to set one global default download location for all files. You cannot assign specific folders to individual channels. All files downloaded from any chat or channel will go to the single folder you have selected in your settings.
How do I reset my Teams download settings to default?
To reset your settings, return to the Files and links tab in your Teams settings. Click the Change button again and navigate back to your default user Downloads folder. Selecting the original path will restore the default behavior for all future file downloads within the application.
If you wish to revert to the system default download location, simply navigate back to the Files and links settings in Teams and click Change again. Then, select your standard Downloads folder. This ensures all future downloads are saved to the original location.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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