Why are my downloads downloading as Internet Explorer files? This is a common issue that many users encounter while browsing the internet. Whether you are using a Windows PC or a Mac, it can be quite frustrating to find that your downloaded files are automatically saved with Internet Explorer extensions. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this problem and provide you with some effective solutions to fix it.
Internet Explorer, once the most popular web browser, has been surpassed by modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari. However, it is still used by some users, and the problem of downloads being saved as Internet Explorer files can occur for various reasons. Here are some of the most common causes and how to address them:
1. Default Browser Settings: One of the primary reasons for this issue is that Internet Explorer is set as the default browser on your computer. When you download a file, the system uses the default browser to save it, which results in the file being saved with an Internet Explorer extension. To resolve this, you can change the default browser settings to your preferred one.
2. Third-party Applications: Sometimes, third-party applications or browser extensions can interfere with your download settings. These applications may be designed to save files using Internet Explorer, or they may alter your browser’s settings without your knowledge. Uninstalling these applications or disabling the browser extensions can help you regain control over your download settings.
3. Windows Registry: The Windows registry contains a variety of settings that control how your computer operates. If the registry is corrupted or contains incorrect settings, it can lead to issues with file downloads. To fix this, you can use a registry cleaner tool to scan and repair any problems in the registry.
4. Browser Cache: The browser cache is a temporary storage area that stores data from websites you visit. Over time, the cache can become corrupted, leading to unexpected behavior, such as downloads being saved with Internet Explorer extensions. Clearing the browser cache can help resolve this issue.
Here’s how to address each of these causes:
1. Change Default Browser Settings:
– On Windows, go to Settings > Apps > Default apps and select “Web browser” from the list. Choose your preferred browser from the dropdown menu.
– On Mac, open the Apple menu > System Preferences > General and select your preferred browser from the “Web browser” dropdown menu.
2. Uninstall Third-party Applications or Disable Browser Extensions:
– On Windows, go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features and uninstall any suspicious applications.
– On Mac, go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Extensions and disable any browser extensions that may be causing the issue.
3. Use a Registry Cleaner:
– Download and install a reputable registry cleaner tool, such as CCleaner or Wise Registry Cleaner.
– Run the scan and follow the instructions to repair any registry issues.
4. Clear Browser Cache:
– On Windows, open your preferred browser, go to Settings > Privacy and services > Clear browsing data. Select “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files” from the list of options, then click “Clear data.”
– On Mac, open your preferred browser, go to Preferences > Privacy and click on “Remove All Website Data.” Confirm the action when prompted.
By addressing these common causes, you should be able to resolve the issue of downloads being saved as Internet Explorer files. If the problem persists, it may be helpful to seek assistance from a professional or consult the support forums for your specific browser.
