How to Change the Download Path of Internet Explorer

Change the default locations of IE downloads.

When you download files and programs online, Internet Explorer gives you the option of selecting the location in which to save the downloaded files. If you opt to download the application to IE's default location, though, you may have trouble finding it when you want to open or install it. You can change the default download path for Internet Explorer by editing the registry.

Things You'll Need

• Internet Explorer 6 or higher
• Windows XP, Vista or 7

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button. In Windows XP, click "Run," type "regedit" into the "Open" box and click "OK." In Windows Vista or Windows 7, type "regedit" into the "Search" box and click "regedit.exe" in the results list. Click "OK" if prompted by a User Account Control window. The Windows Registry opens.

2. Click the arrow to the left of "HKEY_CURRENT_USER" to expand the folder. Navigate to "Software > Microsoft > Internet Explorer."

3. Double-click "Download Directory" in the main window area. An "Edit String" dialog box opens.

4. Enter the file path that you want Internet Explorer to use as the default for downloads into the "Value Data" box.

5. Click "OK" to apply the changes. Close the Windows Registry and restart your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Incorrectly changing the Windows Registry can cause serious problems to your system. Do not edit the Registry unless you are confident doing so.

References

• Windows Reference: How to Change the Default Download Directory for Internet Explorer
• PC Tools: Specify the Default Internet Explorer Download Directory