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How to Download Files with Plesk File Manager

Overview

Plesk File Manager allows you to view, manage, and download your website files directly from the control panel—no need for FTP or third-party tools. This guide will show you how to download individual files or folders from your hosting environment in just a few clicks.

Whether you’re creating a backup, transferring files to another server, or editing your site locally, File Manager provides a convenient and secure method for downloading data.

When Should You Use Plesk File Manager to Download Files?

● Quickly backing up specific files or folders

● Downloading a website before making changes

● Accessing files without using FTP

● Sharing files with a developer or designer

How to Download Files Using Plesk File Manager

Step 1. Log into Plesk

Step 2. Navigate to the File then click on the arrow in the corner. once you click on the arrow in the corner you can click on Download

Step 3. That’s it, The download was successful

Troubleshooting Tips

I can’t find the Download button: Make sure you’ve selected a file. The button only becomes active when one or more files are checked.

Download fails or is slow: Try refreshing the File Manager or downloading during off-peak hours. You can also use FTP for larger files.

File downloaded as .zip won’t open: Ensure the archive was created successfully and use a compatible unzip tool like WinRAR, 7-Zip, or macOS Archive Utility.

Best Practices for File Downloads

● Always download backups before editing live files

● Store downloaded files securely (use password-protected folders if needed)

● Regularly archive and download backups of key directories (like httpdocs and databases)

● Keep your local machine protected with antivirus software when handling downloaded site files

Additional Resources

Need more help managing files? Visit the Plesk documentation for advanced file management options.

Summary

Downloading files with Plesk File Manager is a fast and secure way to back up or transfer your website content. Whether you’re working on a single HTML file or your entire website, Plesk makes it easy to access and manage your hosting files without needing FTP or technical tools.

Still have questions? Contact 1-grid Support for expert help

Updated on May 7, 2025

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