Here are some common reasons a PDF doesn’t download properly, and how to fix each one. Pick the symptoms that match what you're seeing

Nothing happens when you click “Download PDF”

Possible causes & fixes:

• Pop-up blocked:

• Check for a pop-up blocker notification in your browser

• Allow the site to open downloads/pop-ups

• Browser extension interference:

• Disable ad-blockers, privacy extensions, or download managers temporarily

• Try an incognito/private window

• Site issue:

• Refresh the page

• Try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari)

The PDF opens in the browser but doesn’t download

Fixes:

• Right-click the link → Save link as…
• Check the browser’s built-in PDF viewer settings and toggle “Download PDFs instead of opening automatically”

The PDF downloads but won’t open

Possible causes & fixes:

• Corrupted file:

• Try downloading again

• If possible, verify file size—0 bytes means download failed

• Outdated PDF reader:

• Update Adobe Reader or your default PDF viewer

• Partial download:

• Delete the file and re-download using a stable internet connection

“Failed – Network error” or similar

Fixes:

• Check your internet connection
• Disable VPN/proxy temporarily
• Clear browser cache
• Try downloading in a different network (personal hotspot, another Wi-Fi)

Updated on: 04/12/2025