How to Change the Default Download Location in Microsoft Edge Chromium

Learn how to modify the download location in Microsoft Edge Chromium, which now uses the same engine as Google Chrome. By default, Microsoft Edge Chromium stores downloaded items in the C: Users folder. However, you can easily change the default download location by following the steps below.

Method 1: Changing the Download Folder through Browser Settings

The easiest way to change the download directory is through the browser settings. Here’s how:

1. Open Microsoft Edge Chromium.
2. Click on the three dots and choose “Settings.”
3. Select “Downloads” and click on the “Change” button.
4. Choose a new location for your downloads.

Method 2: Changing the Download Folder via Registry Editor

If you prefer to use the Registry Editor to modify settings, you can follow these steps to safely set the download folder for Microsoft Edge Chromium:

1. Open the Registry Editor by typing “regedit” in the Run dialog box.
2. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE SOFTWARE Policies Microsoft Edge.
3. If the Edge key is missing, create it by right-clicking the Microsoft key and choosing the “New” > “Key” option.
4. Right-click on the right panel of the Edge key and select “New” > “String Value.”
5. Rename this value as “DownloadDirectory.”
6. Double-click on “DownloadDirectory” and enter the folder path in the value data.
7. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Method 3: Changing the Download Folder via Local Group Policy Editor

You can also use the Local Group Policy Editor to configure specific settings:

1. Go to Microsoft’s site and select your Microsoft Edge version details to download the policy files.
2. Extract the downloaded zip file and navigate to “MicrosoftEdgePolicyTemplates windows admx”.
3. Copy the files “msedge.admx” and “msedge.adml” and paste them into the folder “C: Windows PolicyDefinitions”.
4. Restart your computer to find these new policy files in the Local Group Policy Editor.
5. Open the Local Group Policy Editor and go to Computer Configuration Administrative Templates Microsoft Edge.
6. Double click on the “Set Download Directory” setting and select “Enabled.”
7. Enter the path of the folder where you want to download files.
8. Save these changes by clicking the “Apply”/”OK” button.

Conclusion

Changing the default download location in Microsoft Edge Chromium is easy and can be done using the browser settings, Registry Editor, or Local Group Policy Editor. By following the steps highlighted in this article, you can customize where your downloads go, making it easier to manage your files.

FAQs

Can I use the same method on Microsoft Edge Legacy?

No. Microsoft Edge Legacy and Microsoft Edge Chromium are different browsers, and their methods of changing the download location vary. You might want to search for specific tutorials for the Legacy browser.

Can I change the download location on a per-file basis?

Yes. When downloading files in Microsoft Edge Chromium, you can choose where to save the file on a per-file basis. You can select a new location every time you download a file.

Can changing the registry settings harm my computer?

Yes. Editing the Registry Editor incorrectly can cause system problems. We recommend creating a backup copy of the registry before making any new changes.

Can I change the download location on Microsoft Edge Chromium for Mac?

Yes. The methods outlined in this article can be used for Microsoft Edge Chromium for Mac.