How to Enable or Disable Ask Where to Save Downloads in Microsoft Edge
The “Ask where to save each file before downloading ” setting in Microsoft Edge forces the browser to open a prompt window for every download so you can pick a specific folder. Leaving this option turned off sends all incoming files straight to your default 📁C:\
You can turn this feature on or off in a few clicks through the Edge download settings page. This control stops messy download folders and helps you keep your files organized from the start.
To enable or disable asking where to save downloads in Microsoft Edge, go to Settings Downloads and toggle “Ask me what to do with each download” on or off. This setting controls whether Edge prompts you for a save location or downloads automatically.
Why Enable Download Prompts?
Enabling the prompt feature prevents automatic saving when handling incoming files. This allows opening the file directly in the browser instead of writing it to disk.
How to Turn On Download Prompts in Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge houses a built-in toggle that forces the browser to ask where each download goes. Bypassing the default destination grants total control over file placement through the browser menu.
- Open the Microsoft Edge browser.
- Click the Settings and more button. This is the 3 horizontal dots on the top right corner. Then select Settings.
- Click Downloads on the left menu.
- Look for the option that says “Ask me what to do with each download”. Toggle the button On or Off.
What Happens?
Disabling the toggle stops Microsoft Edge from asking what to do with incoming files, sending everything straight to disk.
Activating the toggle forces Microsoft Edge to trigger a prompt prior to downloading . Files can then be saved locally or opened directly in the browser window.
Alternative Method: Using Windows Registry
The Windows Registry provides an alternative management method for handling download prompts, requiring administrator privileges and specific path navigation.
- ⚠️ Admin Privileges Required — Open the Windows Registry and navigate to the folder path below:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge - If you don't see the Edge folder, right-click on the Microsoft parent key. Then create a new subkey folder called Edge.
- Right-click in the empty space on the right side of the Edge folder. Select New → DWORD (32-bit) Value. Type the name
PromptForDownloadLocation. - Double-click the new value named
PromptForDownloadLocation. Enter the Value data:- Enter 1 to have Edge ask before downloading files
- Enter 0 to disable the prompt and download automatically
⚠️ Restart the computer to apply the registry modifications.
Summary
Microsoft Edge file destinations remain fully customizable. Choose the Settings menu for a quick toggle, or dive into the Windows Registry for deeper system control. Rebooting the system is required after modifying keys in the Registry.
- Use the Settings menu for a quick toggle
- Use the Windows Registry for more advanced control
Rebooting the computer ensures the registry modifications take effect.
How to make Edge ask where to download?
To configure Microsoft Edge to ask where to download files, open the browser Settings menu, navigate to Downloads, and enable the prompt option.
How do I stop Edge from asking me to keep downloads?
Disabling the toggle turns off automatic downloads and restores the prompt behavior.
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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.
Goal = disable the prompts to save and download.
When using the browser settings and the regEdit instructions here neither leave me withe expected outcome/goal. What could be blocking this?? It still prompts both save and download.