How to Fix Chrome Not Downloading Files on Android

Google Chrome has a built-in download manager that usually makes downloading files easy on Android devices. However, sometimes issues arise where downloads may not work or get stuck halfway through. If you’ve experienced problems with Chrome downloads, such as the download being paused or stuck, here are steps you can take to fix the issue.

1. Check Your Internet Connection
First, make sure your internet connection is working properly. A poor or interrupted connection is often the main cause of download issues on Android. If your downloads are interrupted, try restarting your Wi-Fi device. Only move on to other troubleshooting steps after confirming your internet connection is stable.

2. Restart Your Device
Restarting your Android device can resolve many minor issues, including download errors. Before attempting more advanced solutions, restart your device and see if the download issue persists.

3. Check Storage Space
Insufficient storage space on your phone can cause downloads to be paused automatically. This issue isn’t exclusive to Chrome—other apps like the Google Play Store will also encounter problems if your device is low on storage. Go to Settings > Storage and verify that you have enough free space. If needed, free up space by uninstalling unused apps or deleting unnecessary files.

Learn More: How to Enable or Disable Location Services in Chrome Browser

4. Allow Chrome to Save Files on Your Phone
Chrome needs storage permissions to download and save files. If you’ve denied storage access during setup, Chrome won’t be able to save any files. To grant Chrome the required permissions:

1. Long press the Google Chrome app icon and select App Info.
2. Tap on Permissions.
3. Select Files and Media and choose Allow access to media only.

5. Turn Off Data Saver Mode
Android’s Data Saver mode may block Chrome from downloading files. If Chrome is blacklisted in the Data Saver settings, downloads will be interrupted. To turn off Data Saver mode:

1. Open Settings and select Mobile Network.
2. Tap on Data Usage.
3. Select Data Saving and toggle it off.

This will ensure Chrome can use data without restrictions.

6. Allow Chrome to Use Data in the Background
If Chrome is not allowed to use data in the background, downloads may stop or pause when the browser is minimized. To enable background data usage for Chrome:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Chrome.
2. Enable the option for **Allow background data usage.

7. Disable VPN
Using a VPN can sometimes interfere with downloads on Chrome. If you notice Chrome downloads pausing or stopping when using a VPN, try disabling it to see if the issue is resolved.

8. Change DNS Servers
Your internet service provider (ISP) assigns default DNS servers, but these can sometimes cause problems, including download interruptions. Switching to a custom DNS server, such as Google Public DNS or Cloudflare DNS, may improve download performance. Many public DNS options are available online for free.

9. Clear Chrome Browser Cache
Corrupted or outdated cache data can cause problems with Chrome, including slow download speeds or failed downloads. To clear Chrome’s cache:

1. Long press the Google Chrome app icon and select App Info.
2. Tap on Storage Usage.
3. Select Clear Cache.

This should help resolve issues caused by a corrupted browser cache.

10. Reinstall Chrome Browser
If none of the previous methods work, reinstalling Chrome may fix the issue. This will clear all cache, cookies, and saved data. To reinstall Chrome:

1. Uninstall the Chrome browser from your phone.
2. Restart your device.
3. Go to the Google Play Store and reinstall the Chrome browser.

Following these steps should help resolve any issues you’re experiencing with Chrome not downloading files on your Android device. Learn More


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About ugamasontech

Welcome to UgamasonTech! I’m Ugama Stanley Chinedu, the passionate blogger behind this tech haven. With a deep-rooted love for technology and innovation, I explore the latest trends, reviews, and insights to keep you informed and ahead of the curve. Join me on a journey through the ever-evolving tech landscape as we uncover the future together.

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