How to Enable or Disable Ask Where to Save Downloads in Microsoft Edge
The “Ask where to save downloads” setting in Microsoft Edge lets you choose each time where a downloaded file goes.
When this setting is on, Microsoft Edge will pop up a window asking you to pick a folder for your download before it saves. If you turn it off, downloads go straight to your default Downloads folder without any questions.
By default, Microsoft Edge saves all downloads automatically to your computer’s Downloads folder, usually found inside your user profile.
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?
If you don’t always want to download a file to your computer, you can enable a feature that asks you first. This way, you can choose to open the file in the browser instead of saving it.
How to Turn On Download Prompts in Microsoft Edge
You can turn on the setting in Microsoft Edge that asks you where to save each download. This gives you control over where files go instead of letting the browser pick a default spot. It’s a setting found right in the browser’s 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?
When the toggle is Off, Edge won’t ask you what to do with each download. Files will download automatically.
When the toggle is On, Edge will always prompt you before downloading. You can then choose to save the file or open it in the browser.
Alternative Method: Using Windows Registry
For those comfortable with advanced system settings, the Windows Registry offers another way to manage download prompts. This method requires administrator privileges and involves navigating to a specific folder path.
- ⚠️ 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
Summary
You can control where your files are saved when downloading from Microsoft Edge. Choose to be asked each time where to save your downloads through the browser’s settings, or use the Windows Registry for more advanced control. Remember to restart your computer if you make changes using the Registry.
- Use the Settings menu for a quick toggle
- Use the Windows Registry for more advanced control
If you use the Registry method, remember to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
How to make Edge ask where to download?
To make Edge ask where to download files, open the browser’s Settings, go to Downloads, and look for the option to be prompted for each download.
How do I stop Edge from asking me to keep downloads?
If automatic downloads are enabled by default, to disable them, toggle the setting off. Automatic downloads will then be disabled.
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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.