How to allow file downloads in Internet Explorer on Windows Server

When working with Windows Server 2019, many people run into a problem where the built-in Internet Explorer browser blocks file downloads because of heightened security settings. Let's look at how to quickly fix this situation.

WARNING

All actions and instructions are performed on the Windows Server 2019 OS.

The problem with downloads in IE

We connect to the remote server. We open Internet Explorer, choose the recommended settings and click OK.

The Internet Explorer Enhanced Security Configuration window with the recommended security settings and the OK button

When we try to open a website's page, another warning pops up; we leave the checkbox ticked and click OK.

Security Alert with a warning about an insecure connection and the checkbox "In the future, do not show this warning

Then the security system also shows an error; we untick the box for the item that would keep sending warnings and click the Close button.

Internet Explorer dialog with a security warning and the Close button

If you try to download a file, a message pops up saying that the security settings do not allow this action; we click OK.

The solution through security settings

Step 1. Open the browser settings

Next we need to find and click the gear icon in the top corner of the browser. Then we click the Internet options button.

The Internet Explorer drop-down menu with the "Internet options" item highlighted

Step 2. Go to Security

A special window opens in front of us; we go to the Security section.

The Internet Options window on the Security tab with the Internet zone selected

1. Select the Internet zone (the globe)
2. Untick the Enable Protected Mode box
3. Click the Custom level... button

Step 3. Configure downloads

In the window that opens, scroll down and look for these sections:

Custom level settings with the Downloads section showing the File download and Font download settings

Set both to Enable.

WARNING

The first – stands for the ability to download any files.
The second – handles downloading fonts.

Step 4. Apply the changes

Next we click the OK button to apply the settings; a warning pops up:

Warning dialog with the question "Are you sure you want to change the settings for this zone?" and the Yes/No buttons

We agree to the changes by clicking the Yes button.

In the last settings window we click Apply to fully apply the changes:

The Internet Options window with the Apply button highlighted

A warning pops up again; we agree and close the settings window.

The final warning "The current security settings will put your computer at risk" with the OK button

Result

Now we can download any files from websites without any problems. First of all, don't forget to install a new browser!

The file download dialog "Do you want to save ChromeSetup.exe" with the Save/Cancel buttons

After completing all these settings, Internet Explorer will no longer block downloads of files and programs.

Important: We recommend installing a modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) right after configuring this, for more convenient and secure work. This will save you from having to lower IE's security level.

Additional recommendations

Alternative browsers

Instead of configuring IE, it's better to install a current browser:

• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox
• Microsoft Edge

Security

After changing the settings:

• Download files only from trusted sources
• Scan downloads with an antivirus
• Regularly update your security system

For VPS from F3 Cloud

On our Windows Server VPS you can:

• Install any browsers
• Configure security policies
• Get technical support with system configuration

If you run into difficulties configuring Windows Server, contact F3 Cloud support – we'll help solve any technical issues.