Cant download files off my server

Note: If you are using Internet Explorer 9 or later, we recommend adding the sites used by your course to the Trusted Sites zone to enable the file download prompt. For instructions, see Internet Explorer: Trusted Sites and Protected Mode.

In MyLab IT: If you receive the message, "Your browser security settings must be set to enable Automatic prompting for file downloads," see MyLab IT: Unable to Preview Office Documents.

Enable the File Download Prompt

1. Open an Internet Explorer browser and click the gear icon to open Tools. (You can also press Alt + x to open Tools.) Then click Internet Options >Security tab.
2. Click the Custom level button to open the Security Settings.
3. Scroll down to the Downloads heading and select Enable for automatic prompting, file downloads, and font downloads.
4. Click OK, and when asked if you are sure, click Yes.
5. Click OK again.
6. Close all Internet Explorer windows, and then re-open Internet Explorer and attempt the download again.

Change the File Download Prompt Configuration

If the File Download prompt still does not appear, it may have been configured to not show.

When you first download a file, a File Download prompt displays.

If you clear the check box next to Always ask before opening this type of file, and then click Open or Save, your choice for this prompt will be automatically made every time you download this type of file and the prompt will not be displayed.

Warning: In Windows Vista or 7, resetting this choice requires editing the registry. If you use the Registry Editor incorrectly, you may cause serious problems that could require you to reinstall your operating system. Editing the registry is not recommended for most users. For more information, visit the Microsoft Answers website.

Note: If you are using Internet Explorer 9 or later, we recommend adding the sites used by your course to the Trusted Sites zone to enable the file download prompt. For instructions, see Internet Explorer: Trusted Sites and Protected Mode.

In Windows XP, reset this choice by taking the following steps:

1. Click Start >Run, and then type CONTROL FOLDERS and click OK. The Folder Options window opens.
2. On the File Types tab under Registered file types, click the file type you want to restore the download prompt for.
3. Click the Advanced button.
4. Select the check box next to Confirm open after download, and then click OK.
5. Click OK again. 

You will now see the File Download prompt each time you download that type of file. To restore the prompt for other file types, repeat these steps.

For more information on the recommended browser settings for Pearson products, see our interactive troubleshooting wizard: