Tip of the Week: Where to Find Your Downloaded Files

Have you ever downloaded a file, then wondered where exactly it ended up? This is a common problem that can create all kinds of inefficiencies in your workflow and complicate the day more than it needs to. Today, we want to cover where you can find all the files you download using your web browser—even if you’re not using a Windows PC.

Find the Downloads Page Using a Keyboard Shortcut

In short, your downloads are more likely than not stored in the Downloads folder (and we’ll get to that eventually), but you can quickly find your downloads using a keyboard shortcut in your preferred web browser.

You can easily open your Downloads page with the following keyboard shortcut:

• On Windows - Ctrl + J
• On Mac - Command + Option + L

This page will show you any completed downloads, as well as any that are still in progress. You can open any file, folder, or program from this page by double-clicking on it.

But what if you want to make changes to your downloads or move them from one location to another? That’s where the Downloads folder comes in.

Finding the Downloads Folder

The Downloads folder is the default location for any download you initiate from your web browser, and while the destination can be changed, understand that unless you have changed it, this is where your downloads are stored.

To open your Downloads folder, use the following methods:

• On Windows 
  • From the Start menu, press the Windows key and type "downloads" into the search bar. You’ll see the folder appear. Press Enter to open the folder.
  • You can also use the File Explorer to find your Downloads folder. Click on the File Explorer icon from your taskbar, then use the left-hand shortcut pane to find Downloads. We recommend you make a shortcut for your desktop so you can easily find the Downloads folder anytime it’s necessary.
• On Mac
  • For a Mac computer, use the Command + N keyboard shortcut to open a new Finder window. Then click on Downloads from the left-hand shortcut pane.
  • You can also find your downloads using the Dock. It should be on the lower-right corner of the Dock. When you download files, the latest should spring out of the Dock as they are completed.

Finding Downloads on Mobile Devices

For your mobile devices, things will get a little less uniform.

On Android, there is a Downloads folder that can be found in your Files app. You can also see just about all the files on your device in this way. Open the app drawer by swiping your finger up from the bottom of the screen, then tap the Files or My Files app. You’ll then need to look for the Downloads section; tap it to open it up, and that’s it!

On iPad and iPhone, downloaded files are stored and accessed by their associated app. If you download a file from Safari, for example, it will be viewed using Safari or another compatible app.

There are also file manager apps you can download for both Android and iPhone, but be careful with what you download. You don’t want to accidentally download something nasty!

Curious about how to make the most of your technology? Don’t wait any longer. Get started with a call to (866) 546-1004 today.