How to stop downloading files from the Internet in Windows 10

In Windows 10 there are several ways to prevent files from being downloaded from the Internet. Each method depends on the browser commonly used. In the following we show you the detailed procedure for each of the most common browsers.

Block downloads in Internet Explorer

To block downloads in Internet Explorer, we must use Internet Options. Access them by typing Internet options are looking for

internet optionsinternet options

Then click under the tab security on Custom Level (adjust security level).

Adjusted security levelAdjusted security level

In the pop-up window, locate the section Downloads and disable all options.

Disable downloads in Internet ExplorerDisable downloads in Internet Explorer

Save the changes for them to take effect. From this point on, Internet Explorer no longer has permission to download files.

Block downloads in Google Chrome

To block downloads in Google Chrome, do the following. Open the registry editor by typing regedit are looking for

Open Registry EditorOpen Registry Editor

Then go to the file path Computer HKEY_CURRENT_USER Software Google Chrome. If it doesn’t exist, you must create it. To do this, right-click Policiesgo to New and click Key. First create the Google-Key and, using the same method, inside the Chrome-Key.

Create new ruleCreate new rule

The result should be what you see in the next screenshot.

Rules created in the registryRules created in the registry

Create one DWORD value (32 bits ) with a right click. The new value should DownloadRestrictions mean.

Create value in registryCreate value in registry

Double-click it and change its value to 3.

change valuechange value

Restart the browser for the changes to take effect. From this point forward, Google Chrome will no longer download anything onto your computer.

Block downloads in Firefox

In the case of Firefox, you need an extension called Public fox to use.

Once enabled, go to your Firefox Extensions settings section.

expansion optionsexpansion options

Now it’s time to determine what kind of files should be blocked. You can also create a password to prevent anyone from making changes to these settings and allow each file to be downloaded individually.

Specify the extensions that cannot be downloadedSpecify the extensions that cannot be downloaded

If you save your changes, Firefox will no longer automatically download the formats you specified.

Block downloads on Microsoft Edge

In the case of the new one Chromium-based Microsoft Edge you can block downloads with the same procedure in Google Chrome. However, the new registry value must be in the path Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Edge be created. If it doesn’t exist, you can create it in the same way as we indicated in the Google Chrome section. On the following picture you can see the result.

Create data set for Microsoft EdgeCreate data set for Microsoft Edge

Similarly, Microsoft Edge will not be able to download files from the internet this way.

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