I noticed a couple of days ago, that when I downloaded a song from amazon, (it was a free song, so no loss of money there), while it went through the whole process, at the end of the d/l, the window (which I always keep 'open' rather than closing) disappeared. I searched for the song where I saved it, but it was not listed. I did a 'search' of the system, but with no results. I tried downloading a few other things, to see if it was the site/song, or what, and nothing seems to be able to download. I tried d/l from email, and from messanger, and also a program from CNET, but nothing seems to show up. I ran avast and malware bytes. I had 4 pups which are now quarantened, and after reboot, still unable to download anything. However, I did discover that d/l a song from my other computer to this one, that I could play it even if it wasn't saved. This leaves me with the inability to download any important programs for the computer.
I don't know if this is a browser issue, or an OS issue.
Can anyone advise me how to resolve this situation?
Thank you
Rad
Reply 1 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Rad,
Some options and considerations;
1] Can you download using any other browser, eg Firefox, Chrome, etc?
If you do not have another browser installed try and download Firefox using your IE8, from; http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/
Install that, and try downloading from different sites. I would suggest, at least for the moment, not downloading from CNET's Download.com as we may be having issues there at the moment. See; http://forums.cnet.com/7723-12543_102-516286.html
If you are unable to download using your IE8, then download the installer file on your other computer and transfer it across.
Does Firefox allow you to download files?
2] See if IE8 has any add-ons that is causing the problem. Use IE's 'Safe Mode' to test this. You should have a Safe Mode Internet Explorer in your Start Menu, (Start > Accessories > System Tools > "Internet Explorer (No Add-Ons).
This opens IE with all the add-ons, toolbars, Javascript and ActiveX disabled. If you can visit a site and download files now, then this suggests a bad or corrupted Add-on. However please note, many web sites use Javascript and other things to enhance their sites nowadays, so some sites may not display properly.
Does that work? If so, the problem is an add-on. You can test this in the normal IE at Tools > Manage Add-ons to eliminate the bad add-on.
3] Malware check. Perform a deep scan with your anti-virus scanner, and also download and install both the free versions of Malwarebytes Anti-malware and SUPERAntiSpyware.
If Firefox works, download those in FF, install, update and run full scans with both one after the other. If you cannot download MBAM in this computer, download it to your other system and transfer it across. You will need the MBAM definitions, and the link below, (at item 4), will help you there;
http://forums.malwarebytes.org/index.php?showtopic=10138
4] Upgrade to IE9 Beta.
This is a risk because IE9 Beta is a testing version and may be muggy. But there is a report in a forum discussion in the link below that this worked for one person;
http://forums.cnet.com/7726-12546_102-5083791.html
But you do so at your own risk. Make sure you know how to revert back to IE8 if IE9 Beta does not work for you.
I hope that helps.
Mark
Some options and considerations;
1] Can you download using any other browser, eg Firefox, Chrome, etc?
If you do not have another browser installed try and download Firefox using your IE8, from; http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/
Install that, and try downloading from different sites. I would suggest, at least for the moment, not downloading from CNET's Download.com as we may be having issues there at the moment. See; http://forums.cnet.com/7723-12543_102-516286.html
If you are unable to download using your IE8, then download the installer file on your other computer and transfer it across.
Does Firefox allow you to download files?
2] See if IE8 has any add-ons that is causing the problem. Use IE's 'Safe Mode' to test this. You should have a Safe Mode Internet Explorer in your Start Menu, (Start > Accessories > System Tools > "Internet Explorer (No Add-Ons).
This opens IE with all the add-ons, toolbars, Javascript and ActiveX disabled. If you can visit a site and download files now, then this suggests a bad or corrupted Add-on. However please note, many web sites use Javascript and other things to enhance their sites nowadays, so some sites may not display properly.
Does that work? If so, the problem is an add-on. You can test this in the normal IE at Tools > Manage Add-ons to eliminate the bad add-on.
3] Malware check. Perform a deep scan with your anti-virus scanner, and also download and install both the free versions of Malwarebytes Anti-malware and SUPERAntiSpyware.
If Firefox works, download those in FF, install, update and run full scans with both one after the other. If you cannot download MBAM in this computer, download it to your other system and transfer it across. You will need the MBAM definitions, and the link below, (at item 4), will help you there;
http://forums.malwarebytes.org/index.php?showtopic=10138
4] Upgrade to IE9 Beta.
This is a risk because IE9 Beta is a testing version and may be muggy. But there is a report in a forum discussion in the link below that this worked for one person;
http://forums.cnet.com/7726-12546_102-5083791.html
But you do so at your own risk. Make sure you know how to revert back to IE8 if IE9 Beta does not work for you.
I hope that helps.
Mark
Reply 2 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hello Mark. Thank you for answering my questions.
I knew that I wouldn't be able download (save to the HD) from IE8. Since Firefox recommends chosing the RUN option, I tried that, and it went through the first step, and the 2nd RUN window popped up, but when it finished loading, it closed, and no wizard popped up. This had happened with other files I tried downloading yesterday to test what was and what wasn't working. What I can do, it seems, is receive a transfer (but can't save to HD) in Yahoo Messanger. I will try to d/l Foxfire on my XP and see if I can transfer it from there thru messanger (I can't d/l from email either (Yahoo address), and see if can 'open' and run Foxfire from there. It worked for a song, which remains in my library even while it didn't save to my HD.
I will have to get back to you about Foxfire allowing me to d/l if I can get it from the other machine.
I have, at this moment, the add-ons disabled, but it didn't seem to make a difference in d/l and running Foxfire.
I had run an Avast and MBAM scan yesterday, before coming here. Avast showed nothing, but MBAM did show several adware and 4 PUPs, all of which were quarantined. According to both Avast and MBAM, when I updated the definitions, they both said successful.
I DO have one WINDOWS update which fails consistently, for an MS-WORKS security problem. But I don't know if that would eventually cause problems with d/l from websites.
I'll add more when I've tried to d/l of Foxfire on my XP, and see if it transfers and runs from there.
Thank you again,
Rad
I knew that I wouldn't be able download (save to the HD) from IE8. Since Firefox recommends chosing the RUN option, I tried that, and it went through the first step, and the 2nd RUN window popped up, but when it finished loading, it closed, and no wizard popped up. This had happened with other files I tried downloading yesterday to test what was and what wasn't working. What I can do, it seems, is receive a transfer (but can't save to HD) in Yahoo Messanger. I will try to d/l Foxfire on my XP and see if I can transfer it from there thru messanger (I can't d/l from email either (Yahoo address), and see if can 'open' and run Foxfire from there. It worked for a song, which remains in my library even while it didn't save to my HD.
I will have to get back to you about Foxfire allowing me to d/l if I can get it from the other machine.
I have, at this moment, the add-ons disabled, but it didn't seem to make a difference in d/l and running Foxfire.
I had run an Avast and MBAM scan yesterday, before coming here. Avast showed nothing, but MBAM did show several adware and 4 PUPs, all of which were quarantined. According to both Avast and MBAM, when I updated the definitions, they both said successful.
I DO have one WINDOWS update which fails consistently, for an MS-WORKS security problem. But I don't know if that would eventually cause problems with d/l from websites.
I'll add more when I've tried to d/l of Foxfire on my XP, and see if it transfers and runs from there.
Thank you again,
Rad
Reply 3 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Firefox, 
It's a but troubling that you cannot 'save to disk'. That seems a problem.
Question, are you using an Administrators account? Try doing the same in your spare Admin account. If you still cannot save to disk then there is something else going on here.
Another option for you, try System Restore back to when this worked.
However, ensure you have backups of all your personal files and settings, and a plan to re-install if anything happens to this hard disk. Just a precaution you understand.
Mark
It's a but troubling that you cannot 'save to disk'. That seems a problem.
Question, are you using an Administrators account? Try doing the same in your spare Admin account. If you still cannot save to disk then there is something else going on here.
Another option for you, try System Restore back to when this worked.
However, ensure you have backups of all your personal files and settings, and a plan to re-install if anything happens to this hard disk. Just a precaution you understand.
Mark
Reply 4 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
I have Firefox now, downloaded from Yahoo Messanger. It installed, and I even can see that it saved to my hard disk. In trying to save a file I got through email, (a song I sent myself from my other computer), I was unable to find where Firefox actually saved the song. It brought up a window, but didn't actually give me an option where to save it on my hard drive. It does ask if I want to save to disk, or open with Windows Media Player. But I don't know where on my hard drive it saved it to disk when I chose that option. Can you help me there (I can't even find that info in the Firefox HELP option. So I still can't tell, at the moment, if it actually is saving things to disk.
Thank you,
Rad
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 5 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Go to Firefox's Tools > Options, then under the General tab look for "Downloads".
The default, (I believe), is either;
C:Users{UserName}Downloads, or
C:Users{UserName}My Documents, (I can't remember which),
where {UserName} is your Windows account name.
You can change the "Save files to" option to anywhere you wish using the Browse button. I prefer the Desktop as a temporary storage area.
See if you can find it in Firefox's default folder.
Mark
The default, (I believe), is either;
C:Users{UserName}Downloads, or
C:Users{UserName}My Documents, (I can't remember which),
where {UserName} is your Windows account name.
You can change the "Save files to" option to anywhere you wish using the Browse button. I prefer the Desktop as a temporary storage area.
See if you can find it in Firefox's default folder.
Mark
Reply 6 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Mark. I followed the directions, and made a special download folder for Firefox so I wouldn't have to wade through all the previous d/ls in my regular 'downloads' folder. What I found interesting is that I went back to amazon, redownloaded the free song I tried to yesterday, and while it was downloading into my system, it actually showed up in the folder, but after it finished, it disappeared. Then I tried to download a game (which I was told was a Binary File, by the FF download window), but that didn't show up at all. It was a quick d/l, and usually the game is then d/l completely by the game downloader.
I still find it strange that through Yahoo Messanger I was actually able to download firefox, and that file still remains in my 'downloads' folder.
Unfortunately I'm not sure what that all means.
I re-read your first response, and to answer a few other questions:
I tried, on IE8, to d/l with add-ons turned off, but got the same result. It wouldn't download. So far, Yahoo Messanger seems to be the only way to download. Though, actually, I'll have to retry the songs again, because I remember while it didn't save, it still was able to 'open' the file and I was able to listen to the song. I even still have that in the 'WMP Library' but can't find it on the HD at all, except maybe it's just in Temporary Folder.
Do you know whether those PUPs might have caused problems? One was Dealio, which I believe I've had before, or the other machine, XP, had that infection. Either way, I'm still back to square one, and since my XP is actually my husband's machine, I can't always be bothering him to do downloads for me, especially when he's doing his own downloads.
I am going to rerun the MBAM this morning, to see what shows up. I'll also try to d/l the other Malware program you mentioned. Do you think that the updater on MBAM isn't working even though it says it updated successfully? Or is updating a whole different process from downloading?
Just to add a little more 'insight?' to the situation. I've been able to do temporary downloads, which allow me to play games at my gaming site, but doesn't save to HD. I also have been able to watch a movie on Netflix which shows 'downloading' in its setup, but again, I suspect that's a temp internet file fold thing.
I have not yet tried IE9. I need to make sure I can return to IE8 should it not work, or something else goes wrong and I need to return to the current IE version I have.
Again, thank you for all your help,
Rad
I still find it strange that through Yahoo Messanger I was actually able to download firefox, and that file still remains in my 'downloads' folder.
Unfortunately I'm not sure what that all means.
I re-read your first response, and to answer a few other questions:
I tried, on IE8, to d/l with add-ons turned off, but got the same result. It wouldn't download. So far, Yahoo Messanger seems to be the only way to download. Though, actually, I'll have to retry the songs again, because I remember while it didn't save, it still was able to 'open' the file and I was able to listen to the song. I even still have that in the 'WMP Library' but can't find it on the HD at all, except maybe it's just in Temporary Folder.
Do you know whether those PUPs might have caused problems? One was Dealio, which I believe I've had before, or the other machine, XP, had that infection. Either way, I'm still back to square one, and since my XP is actually my husband's machine, I can't always be bothering him to do downloads for me, especially when he's doing his own downloads.
I am going to rerun the MBAM this morning, to see what shows up. I'll also try to d/l the other Malware program you mentioned. Do you think that the updater on MBAM isn't working even though it says it updated successfully? Or is updating a whole different process from downloading?
Just to add a little more 'insight?' to the situation. I've been able to do temporary downloads, which allow me to play games at my gaming site, but doesn't save to HD. I also have been able to watch a movie on Netflix which shows 'downloading' in its setup, but again, I suspect that's a temp internet file fold thing.
I have not yet tried IE9. I need to make sure I can return to IE8 should it not work, or something else goes wrong and I need to return to the current IE version I have.
Again, thank you for all your help,
Rad
Reply 7 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
This, 'unable to save to the hard disk' problem is puzzling.
Can you check again what size hard disk this is, and how much is used and how much still free?
To do that, open "Computer", (is called "My Computer" in XP and is available either on the Desktop or in the the Start menu in Vista). Find your hard drive and right click it, then choose properties. This will show details and a pie chart.
Mark
Can you check again what size hard disk this is, and how much is used and how much still free?
To do that, open "Computer", (is called "My Computer" in XP and is available either on the Desktop or in the the Start menu in Vista). Find your hard drive and right click it, then choose properties. This will show details and a pie chart.
Mark
Reply 8 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
The hard drive is 288GB with 183GB free space.
Is it possible that somehow in the browser the save to disk has been disabled? Is that something that can happen? Or is it possible that somewhere in the system, settings got changed for downloading? I know that the window which opens while something is downloading, is set to NOT close after the download, which is when I noticed that it was disappearing after a d/l. Then I'd check the folder where I normally save a specific kind of d/l (I have different folders for different kinds of file downloads, to help me keep organized).
I can save as on jpgs, gifs, and other photo formats. I tried that out to make sure I had not lost other d/l abilities.
I'm still primarily using IE8, though I am trying the download experiments with Firefox.
Do you think this has anything to do with infections? I ran MBAM again this morning, and got no infections. I will try that other program you recommended, SuperAntiSpyware, just to see if I have any luck right now.
Thank you,
Rad
Is it possible that somehow in the browser the save to disk has been disabled? Is that something that can happen? Or is it possible that somewhere in the system, settings got changed for downloading? I know that the window which opens while something is downloading, is set to NOT close after the download, which is when I noticed that it was disappearing after a d/l. Then I'd check the folder where I normally save a specific kind of d/l (I have different folders for different kinds of file downloads, to help me keep organized).
I can save as on jpgs, gifs, and other photo formats. I tried that out to make sure I had not lost other d/l abilities.
I'm still primarily using IE8, though I am trying the download experiments with Firefox.
Do you think this has anything to do with infections? I ran MBAM again this morning, and got no infections. I will try that other program you recommended, SuperAntiSpyware, just to see if I have any luck right now.
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 9 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
I tried to d/l the SuperAntiSpyware with IE8 and with Foxfire. The IE8 acted as it has been the last several days. The Foxfire browser showed up in the folder I was downloading it to, through the download process (see this http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k246/raduzhok/FIREFOXdl.jpg screenshot I took of that if you'd like to see what appeared), but immediately after the d/l finished, the SuperAntiSpyware files disappeared from the folder.
Thank you,
Rad
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 10 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
I don't understand why downloaded files are listing in Explorer when they are being downloaded, but then disappearing when the download completes.
If it is a 'permissions' problem, (you don't have permission to access this folder), then I am unsure how to solve that. Vista permissions are tricky things and we would think that, since we are logged in to Windows Vista in an Admin capable account, that we would have no such limitations or restrictions. But that is not the case and permissions run deep in both Vista and Windows 7.
Is there some other software that is deleting these downloads? Do you use any other security software, eg Spybot Search & Destroy, Spywareblaster, or other utilities besides your anti-virus scanner? I'm sure you have told us what anti-virus you are using somewhere in this discussion, but can you tell me again?
Mark
If it is a 'permissions' problem, (you don't have permission to access this folder), then I am unsure how to solve that. Vista permissions are tricky things and we would think that, since we are logged in to Windows Vista in an Admin capable account, that we would have no such limitations or restrictions. But that is not the case and permissions run deep in both Vista and Windows 7.
Is there some other software that is deleting these downloads? Do you use any other security software, eg Spybot Search & Destroy, Spywareblaster, or other utilities besides your anti-virus scanner? I'm sure you have told us what anti-virus you are using somewhere in this discussion, but can you tell me again?
Mark
Reply 11 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Mark. It happens in both IE and Foxfire. In Foxfire, I can see the file in there while it is downloading, but it disappears after the process finishes. With IE I have never seen a file in the folder until after it finishes. But what gave me the clue to the fact that it wasn't staying (saving), or finishing, or even actually 'happening' was the download window, which I actually keep open even after the download takes place so I can close it or open the file depending on what I want.
I have not tried the one thing you suggested about trying it from a spare admin acct. I am not sure how to do that; how to switch, so that is another option. I also remember when this began, I tried once to check the download window to close on one download, and then unchecked it again. I think that I actually was able to save two downloads, but then after that, it stopped. I am never asked, "permission" wise about downloading files, but do have to give permission for any programs, and installations, and such.
No, I don't have other security software. I have avast running constantly, and use Windows firewall. Malwarebytes is not even loaded into my tray. I have to manually open it to use it. The only things in my tray are the usual volume, connection (I am connected to a router so both systems can be online at the same time, so I'm not sure if there is any interference from that) and, to answer you question about anti-virus scanner, I'm using Avast.
The one odd thing is that I am able (or was able once) to download a program (firefox) through Yahoo Messanger. I need to try to see if that applies only to programs, since I couldn't save to the HD through there, but could open the file (a song), and it remains in my Library even if it isn't in my HD. I have no problem saving a picture to my system in with the 'save as' option.
When you ask if I may not have permission to access a folder, do you mean, that I wouldn't be asked by WINDOWS to 'continue' when installing a program, or something like that?
Thank you,
Rad
I have not tried the one thing you suggested about trying it from a spare admin acct. I am not sure how to do that; how to switch, so that is another option. I also remember when this began, I tried once to check the download window to close on one download, and then unchecked it again. I think that I actually was able to save two downloads, but then after that, it stopped. I am never asked, "permission" wise about downloading files, but do have to give permission for any programs, and installations, and such.
No, I don't have other security software. I have avast running constantly, and use Windows firewall. Malwarebytes is not even loaded into my tray. I have to manually open it to use it. The only things in my tray are the usual volume, connection (I am connected to a router so both systems can be online at the same time, so I'm not sure if there is any interference from that) and, to answer you question about anti-virus scanner, I'm using Avast.
The one odd thing is that I am able (or was able once) to download a program (firefox) through Yahoo Messanger. I need to try to see if that applies only to programs, since I couldn't save to the HD through there, but could open the file (a song), and it remains in my Library even if it isn't in my HD. I have no problem saving a picture to my system in with the 'save as' option.
When you ask if I may not have permission to access a folder, do you mean, that I wouldn't be asked by WINDOWS to 'continue' when installing a program, or something like that?
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 12 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
To tell you the truth Rad I am not sure what permissions problems would do. I've used Vista extensively and now use Windows 7, but they are the same in many respects. Some folders in Explorer are inaccessible, even using an account that has Admin powers, and that is because they are not really folders at all but shortcuts, or Junction Points, to other folders. It's complicated but for example, in XP we had My Documents, My Pictures, My Music etc. In Vista and 7 they have been changed to Public Documents, Public Pictures, Public Music, and so on. However, since many XP applications still expect to find the My Document folders during installation, Vista and Win 7 include these as shortcut folders for 'Legacy' applications. In other words, for compatibility with XP. They list in Explorer but we cannot use them. They just point to the Public folders.
A clarification. When I talk about Explorer or Windows Explorer, I am not talking about Internet Explorer. Instead I am talking about Window's own File Manager. In XP you could access your files and folders thru My Computer, but in Vista and Win 7 that is now just Computer, either from the Desktop or in the Start Menu.
Try this. Open Windows Explorer and navigate to your C drive to list the folders. Then look at the following;
1] C:Users{UserName}Downloads - where {UserName} is your Windows account name.
Now look at;
2] C:UsersPublicDownloads
Do any of your downloads appear in either of those folders?
Try another test. You have one of the download file names, (your image you gave listed a few, eg SUPERAntiSpyware.exe). Now, goto Start, and in the Search box type in SUPERAntiSpyware.exe and press Enter. Does search find any files for it?
Mark
A clarification. When I talk about Explorer or Windows Explorer, I am not talking about Internet Explorer. Instead I am talking about Window's own File Manager. In XP you could access your files and folders thru My Computer, but in Vista and Win 7 that is now just Computer, either from the Desktop or in the Start Menu.
Try this. Open Windows Explorer and navigate to your C drive to list the folders. Then look at the following;
1] C:Users{UserName}Downloads - where {UserName} is your Windows account name.
Now look at;
2] C:UsersPublicDownloads
Do any of your downloads appear in either of those folders?
Try another test. You have one of the download file names, (your image you gave listed a few, eg SUPERAntiSpyware.exe). Now, goto Start, and in the Search box type in SUPERAntiSpyware.exe and press Enter. Does search find any files for it?
Mark
Reply 13 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Please continue any replies/discussion below this post.
These forums impose a limit on 'child' sub-threads within a discussion to around 12 posts, and we reached that limit with my post above.
Sorry, I hadn't realised we were so near the limit.
Mark
These forums impose a limit on 'child' sub-threads within a discussion to around 12 posts, and we reached that limit with my post above.
Sorry, I hadn't realised we were so near the limit.
Mark
Reply 14 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Mark. I followed your directions, and found the 'public download' folder. When I clicked on it, there were no folders or files in it. With my system, when I first got it, I noted that the 'documents' and 'download' folder icons were not the traditional yellow file folders but were blue icons, set up by WINDOWS (I would guess). Also, the Music, Pictures, Desktop, Contacts, and Video 'system' folders use those icons. The only one of those I use (for program downloads) is the Download folder, which is not the public download folder. This is where all my downloads, unless I otherwise designate another folder (i.e. I put all music downloads into a specific personal music folder which I created for this.
I followed, also, the instruction for searching for SuperAntiSpyware, and it found it, and when I clicked on the link, it brought up the wizard to install it. I'm doing that now.
I will search for some of the other file names I've 'downloaded' that way and see what I find.
I'll run a SuperAntiSpyware scan after installation, and let you know the results.
Thank you,
Rad
I followed, also, the instruction for searching for SuperAntiSpyware, and it found it, and when I clicked on the link, it brought up the wizard to install it. I'm doing that now.
I will search for some of the other file names I've 'downloaded' that way and see what I find.
I'll run a SuperAntiSpyware scan after installation, and let you know the results.
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 15 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Where did Search find this SUPERAntiSpyware.exe file?
Possibly all your downloads are in the same place?
Mark
Possibly all your downloads are in the same place?
Mark
Reply 16 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Mark. Oddly, when it took me to where it was located, I had not realized that I had previously downloaded the program, so while it brought me to that (older) download folder, (which is an old system download folder I managed to save from an old HD, in a system whose motherboard abandonded ship), I mistakenly thought the actual d/l was from yesterday. I believe that has to be the actual file it brought me to, since it resides in the old download folder even now, and is dated March 2009. It updated my definitions and program immediately after installation.
Here is the odd thing, Yahoo Messanger seems to be the only way I can actually download anything. I tried transferring over a program I had been unable to download back when this all started, from my XP machine, and it saved to the location I indicated. I tried another song thru Yahoo Messanger, and that also saved. But trying to directly d/l from Amazon, or any other place where there are free downloads, it doesn't work in either IE8 or Foxfire.
None of the other downloads, which you asked about were found in that older folder. I tried doing a search of the song I d/l from Amazon, and I got a window which says 'Windows is searching for 'filename' and it offered me the option to browse to a specific folder myself, to no avail. One thing I noticed is when I check the properties on the actual files, it shows on the shortcut tab the name of the folder (but that folder is empty). It's like it is 'hidden,' as we talked about above regarding the 'permissions.'
Still trying to d/l things from email, or sites, but so far, it's not working except through Yahoo Messanger.
Thank you,
Rad
Here is the odd thing, Yahoo Messanger seems to be the only way I can actually download anything. I tried transferring over a program I had been unable to download back when this all started, from my XP machine, and it saved to the location I indicated. I tried another song thru Yahoo Messanger, and that also saved. But trying to directly d/l from Amazon, or any other place where there are free downloads, it doesn't work in either IE8 or Foxfire.
None of the other downloads, which you asked about were found in that older folder. I tried doing a search of the song I d/l from Amazon, and I got a window which says 'Windows is searching for 'filename' and it offered me the option to browse to a specific folder myself, to no avail. One thing I noticed is when I check the properties on the actual files, it shows on the shortcut tab the name of the folder (but that folder is empty). It's like it is 'hidden,' as we talked about above regarding the 'permissions.'
Still trying to d/l things from email, or sites, but so far, it's not working except through Yahoo Messanger.
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 17 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
I wonder if Vista is confused about having two System Download folders. What is the full path for this download folder you found?
Try these;
1] In Folder Options > View tab, (From the Control Panel), make sure all options to show hidden folders and files are selected and make sure all options to 'hide' system folder are de-selected. If files are hidden, this might display them.
2] If that fails, open Firefox and goto Tools > Options. In the General tab look for "Save files to...". Browse to select the Desktop. Then still using Firefox download a file to the Desktop. Does it display? If not, press F5 to refresh the Desktop.
Mark
Try these;
1] In Folder Options > View tab, (From the Control Panel), make sure all options to show hidden folders and files are selected and make sure all options to 'hide' system folder are de-selected. If files are hidden, this might display them.
2] If that fails, open Firefox and goto Tools > Options. In the General tab look for "Save files to...". Browse to select the Desktop. Then still using Firefox download a file to the Desktop. Does it display? If not, press F5 to refresh the Desktop.
Mark
Reply 18 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Mark. The second download folder, the older one, is one I placed there from a backup disk, so I could have access to downloads from a previous HD. When I seek to d/l a program, it auto goes to the Vista system downloads folder. Or used to. I only choose other folders when it is specific files that are not programs. My system defaults to that folder, unless I direct it elsewhere manually.
I checked the folder options view tab, and it was set, as recommended above, to show hidden folders and files. I'd set it that way originally.
On this go-round to download in Firefox, I chose the Desktop as the target location and downloaded another free song from Amazon. Here is the result of that:
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k246/raduzhok/FirefoxDesktopSave.jpg
As you can see, it didn't download as an mp3 file, and my attempt to open it brought up the other window you see there. I selected Windows Media Player, and it did not activate the program.
I do have a question. Recently, I uninstalled Winamp, which had been my default music program. I expected that WMP would become the automatic default at that point, but it seems that I had to go through the process of picking a music player from the list it offered for all types of music files. That is a separate issue, because the download situation applies to all downloads, MP3s, programs and other kinds of downloads. But I thought I should mention it simply because it is a step I had taken prior to this current situation.
Thank you,
Rad
I checked the folder options view tab, and it was set, as recommended above, to show hidden folders and files. I'd set it that way originally.
On this go-round to download in Firefox, I chose the Desktop as the target location and downloaded another free song from Amazon. Here is the result of that:
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k246/raduzhok/FirefoxDesktopSave.jpg
As you can see, it didn't download as an mp3 file, and my attempt to open it brought up the other window you see there. I selected Windows Media Player, and it did not activate the program.
I do have a question. Recently, I uninstalled Winamp, which had been my default music program. I expected that WMP would become the automatic default at that point, but it seems that I had to go through the process of picking a music player from the list it offered for all types of music files. That is a separate issue, because the download situation applies to all downloads, MP3s, programs and other kinds of downloads. But I thought I should mention it simply because it is a step I had taken prior to this current situation.
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 19 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
In fact I will list them, to avoid confusion;
1] "Show hidden files, folders or drives" - select.
2] "Hide empty drives in the Computer folder" - de-select. Not sure whether it does anything useful but for this exercise it might do.
3] "Hide extensions for known file types" - de-select. This allows you to see whole file names, including file extensions.
4] "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)" - de-select. Some 'other folders and files are hidden. This shows them. However, return this to selected after we're done.
Rad that mp3 download to the Desktop via Firefox is interesting. It may show a different problem. 02 - Alive.mp3.part
The .part of the name suggests the file download has not completed properly and so Windows doesn't know what to do with it.
Do you use a 3rd party download manager? Both Firefox and IE have their own download managers but 3rd party ones can interfere and we generally don't suggest them.
The fact that the file has 'remained visible' on your Desktop is encouraging.
But the fact that it shows .part is not so encouraging. Did you watch the download process as it was happening, and if so, did it seem to complete to the full size of the file? What file size was expected, and what is the file size of this file, (right click the file, select Properties).
Can I try? I won't intrude, but if I could try the link you had to this mp3 file, then I could download it myself and see.
If the file is not 0 MB in size, (greater than a few MB), what happens if you rename the file to remove the .part? (for clarity, remove period and part). Does Windows recognise it then and is Windows able to play it?
Mark
1] "Show hidden files, folders or drives" - select.
2] "Hide empty drives in the Computer folder" - de-select. Not sure whether it does anything useful but for this exercise it might do.
3] "Hide extensions for known file types" - de-select. This allows you to see whole file names, including file extensions.
4] "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)" - de-select. Some 'other folders and files are hidden. This shows them. However, return this to selected after we're done.
Rad that mp3 download to the Desktop via Firefox is interesting. It may show a different problem. 02 - Alive.mp3.part
The .part of the name suggests the file download has not completed properly and so Windows doesn't know what to do with it.
Do you use a 3rd party download manager? Both Firefox and IE have their own download managers but 3rd party ones can interfere and we generally don't suggest them.
The fact that the file has 'remained visible' on your Desktop is encouraging.
But the fact that it shows .part is not so encouraging. Did you watch the download process as it was happening, and if so, did it seem to complete to the full size of the file? What file size was expected, and what is the file size of this file, (right click the file, select Properties).
Can I try? I won't intrude, but if I could try the link you had to this mp3 file, then I could download it myself and see.
If the file is not 0 MB in size, (greater than a few MB), what happens if you rename the file to remove the .part? (for clarity, remove period and part). Does Windows recognise it then and is Windows able to play it?
Mark
Reply 20 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Mark. I just de-selected the system files, and two desktop.ini files appeared on the desktop. Oddly, the mp3 file I downloaded disappeared off the desktop. I'd left it there, but now I noticed it's gone. If you remember the original image I had shown you of the Firefox downloads window, against the folder showing two listed downloads of that song, one did actually show 02_Blanket.mp3.part, and the actual mp3 but with 0MB showing, since it was in mid download. What happened after that was both of those files disappeared from the folder. This is what happened with the 03_Alive.mp3.Part download.
Here is what the image of the desktop looks like with hidden sys files de-selected:
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k246/raduzhok/FirefoxDeskTopUnhidden.jpg
and with the Firefox download window.
I can search for it, but I've had no luck with that option, as mentioned above, with Windows indicating unfound files.
I can try, right after another download, to take out the .part aspect of the file name, I can let you know what I found.
When you ask "Can I try? I won't intrude, but if I could try the link you had to this mp3 file, then I could download it myself and see." would that be the link I find in a 'search' at the START menu? How would I do that?
To go back to the 'size' of the file, you'll see in the downloads window of firefox, (link included top of this response) a size is actually listed.
Thank for taking so much time with me.
Rad
Here is what the image of the desktop looks like with hidden sys files de-selected:
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k246/raduzhok/FirefoxDeskTopUnhidden.jpg
and with the Firefox download window.
I can search for it, but I've had no luck with that option, as mentioned above, with Windows indicating unfound files.
I can try, right after another download, to take out the .part aspect of the file name, I can let you know what I found.
When you ask "Can I try? I won't intrude, but if I could try the link you had to this mp3 file, then I could download it myself and see." would that be the link I find in a 'search' at the START menu? How would I do that?
To go back to the 'size' of the file, you'll see in the downloads window of firefox, (link included top of this response) a size is actually listed.
Thank for taking so much time with me.
Rad
Reply 21 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
You also asked: "Do you use a 3rd party download manager? Both Firefox and IE have their own download managers but 3rd party ones can interfere and we generally don't suggest them."
Not that I know of. I download direct, except for the times I actually used Yahoo Messenger (which seems to be the only way to download that works right now)... but I don't know any 3rd party downloaders unless you mean like Youtube Downloader, type program?
You also said: "The fact that the file has 'remained visible' on your Desktop is encouraging." But it only remained visible for a short while. I left it on my desktop, and went out to dinner, and when I returned, my computer goes into sleep mode after a while, and that 02_Alive.mp3.Part file was gone from the desktop, as I mention below, in part one of my answer to your Post.
Rad
Not that I know of. I download direct, except for the times I actually used Yahoo Messenger (which seems to be the only way to download that works right now)... but I don't know any 3rd party downloaders unless you mean like Youtube Downloader, type program?
You also said: "The fact that the file has 'remained visible' on your Desktop is encouraging." But it only remained visible for a short while. I left it on my desktop, and went out to dinner, and when I returned, my computer goes into sleep mode after a while, and that 02_Alive.mp3.Part file was gone from the desktop, as I mention below, in part one of my answer to your Post.
Rad
Reply 22 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
This seems a mysterious problem. So it might be best to just reload your OS back to factory conditions and start over.
The one thing I didn't read: if you download from IE, it first downloads to TIF (temporary internet files), then it copies the downloaded file to the final destionation. So I wonder if the first step fails (not stored in TIF) or the second (file is in TIF, but isn't copied to the target folder). In the second case, it's in the TIF and you can copy it yourself. Not a solution, of course, but a workaround.
This, of course, doesn't have anything to do with failures in Firefox and Chrome, unless it's some securite setting witch disables the copying to the final folder.
A reload of the OS will clear the cause, whatever it was.
Kees
The one thing I didn't read: if you download from IE, it first downloads to TIF (temporary internet files), then it copies the downloaded file to the final destionation. So I wonder if the first step fails (not stored in TIF) or the second (file is in TIF, but isn't copied to the target folder). In the second case, it's in the TIF and you can copy it yourself. Not a solution, of course, but a workaround.
This, of course, doesn't have anything to do with failures in Firefox and Chrome, unless it's some securite setting witch disables the copying to the final folder.
A reload of the OS will clear the cause, whatever it was.
Kees
Reply 23 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hello Kees. Thank you for offering your help on this, as you say, mysterious problem. When you say 'restore' back to factory conditions, is that the same as reformatting? Will all my documents, files and programs be wiped out? While I do save back-ups, I have added some new files and documents and want to clarify what specifically a 'restore' means.
I've learned something new here about finding files in my file manager (windows explorer). There seems to be no temporary internet files folder. OR it is hidden... one of those possible system hidden folders?
I managed to find and view my TIF with the online help center. Unfortunately, I didn't see anything with regard to jpgs, mp3s and such in the list. While I did a clean up just prior to reporting this problem here, I've since tried from many venues to download, and I don't see these files included in the TIF. Obviously I'm used to the older '98 and XP FM set-up. It used to be that everything was there. Would a more complete list be found another way?
More to follow on the 'how to front' of things.
Thank you, again,
Rad
I've learned something new here about finding files in my file manager (windows explorer). There seems to be no temporary internet files folder. OR it is hidden... one of those possible system hidden folders?
I managed to find and view my TIF with the online help center. Unfortunately, I didn't see anything with regard to jpgs, mp3s and such in the list. While I did a clean up just prior to reporting this problem here, I've since tried from many venues to download, and I don't see these files included in the TIF. Obviously I'm used to the older '98 and XP FM set-up. It used to be that everything was there. Would a more complete list be found another way?
More to follow on the 'how to front' of things.
Thank you, again,
Rad
Reply 24 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
That's a reformat indeed, followed by installation of the OS, the drivers and the applications as they were installed when you bought the machine.
Then it's up to you to repeat everything you did after that, like installing all other programs, recreate all users, redo all settings, restore all data and such.
Kees
Then it's up to you to repeat everything you did after that, like installing all other programs, recreate all users, redo all settings, restore all data and such.
Kees
Reply 25 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
I called in the heavy mob because I was struggling with this, 
I am beginning to think that this OS may have failed, if only in this way.
I hadn't thought of Kees idea about Temporary Internet Files, and that's worth a try. There is a useful utility called CCleaner from http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner . It's a free cleaner utility and will clean out all internet files, all temp folder files and so on.
That may work, but a couple of notes. All browsers need to be closed down when you run it, otherwise it cannot clean out those browsers' internet files.
Also, it cleans out all cookies. For example, logging into these forums needs cookies. So before you run the cleaner, (if you decide to try it), go to its Options > Cookies, and work down the left hand side list to move any cookies you want to save to the right hand column.
Other options?
1] How about a different Windows Vista account? Does that experience the same problems? If not, then this account my be corrupted, and Microsoft has a method of fixing corrupted accounts, as detailed here;
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Fix-a-corrupted-user-profile
2] Try the System File Checker, SFC. Again Microsoft has guidance here;
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929833
You may or may not need the Vista disk handy, but the guidance should tell you that.
3] If all that fails, then I fear that this installation may have failed, and a complete reinstall may be necessary.
Good luck.
Mark
I am beginning to think that this OS may have failed, if only in this way.
I hadn't thought of Kees idea about Temporary Internet Files, and that's worth a try. There is a useful utility called CCleaner from http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner . It's a free cleaner utility and will clean out all internet files, all temp folder files and so on.
That may work, but a couple of notes. All browsers need to be closed down when you run it, otherwise it cannot clean out those browsers' internet files.
Also, it cleans out all cookies. For example, logging into these forums needs cookies. So before you run the cleaner, (if you decide to try it), go to its Options > Cookies, and work down the left hand side list to move any cookies you want to save to the right hand column.
Other options?
1] How about a different Windows Vista account? Does that experience the same problems? If not, then this account my be corrupted, and Microsoft has a method of fixing corrupted accounts, as detailed here;
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Fix-a-corrupted-user-profile
2] Try the System File Checker, SFC. Again Microsoft has guidance here;
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929833
You may or may not need the Vista disk handy, but the guidance should tell you that.
3] If all that fails, then I fear that this installation may have failed, and a complete reinstall may be necessary.
Good luck.
Mark
Reply 26 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
You've mentioned Yahoo Messenger a lot in these posts. Have you tried shutting down YM and then trying the downloads in any browser? Or, if YM loads at startup, disable that, then reboot the system so that it doesn't load any processes, then try a browser download.
It's a wild guess.
Mark
It's a wild guess.
Mark
Reply 27 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Success hopefully. I created a new user acct. I'm bare-bones here, however, with just firefox as my browser. I went to amazon and d/l a song, and it worked! I am going to try to d/l a program, and also from email, and the other kinds of d/ls I wasn't able to do. I haven't brought any of the other acct over because I wasn't sure if the 'corruption' might be contagious (?).
I will keep you updated on that.
I will be hoping to find a fix for the original acct. What can corrupt an account?
Thank you,
Rad
I will keep you updated on that.
I will be hoping to find a fix for the original acct. What can corrupt an account?
Thank you,
Rad
Reply 28 : Problems Downloading Programs and files.
Hi Mark. First, thank you so much for helping me. I have learned a lot more about Vista, at the very least, with this problem. I am glad you posted the how-to of switching to another vista account. In fact, I will have to actually create one, since I'm the only user on this computer.
I'll be reading the info, as well, about the file system checker.
To answer your last question. Actually I don't have Yahoo set to start up when I turn my system on. I only use it sparingly, so I didn't think I needed it taking up space in my tray. I only thought it was really weird that Yahoo enabled the downloads when the browsers don't. Could it be IE8 specific, (though I realize that with Firefox failing as well, that is unlikely.
I have, as an aside, seen a greater number of IE8 failures upon launching, though usually a second try will work fine. I will keep you updated on my progress and I really do appreciate the time you've taken to help me.
Thank you,
Rad
I'll be reading the info, as well, about the file system checker.
To answer your last question. Actually I don't have Yahoo set to start up when I turn my system on. I only use it sparingly, so I didn't think I needed it taking up space in my tray. I only thought it was really weird that Yahoo enabled the downloads when the browsers don't. Could it be IE8 specific, (though I realize that with Firefox failing as well, that is unlikely.
I have, as an aside, seen a greater number of IE8 failures upon launching, though usually a second try will work fine. I will keep you updated on my progress and I really do appreciate the time you've taken to help me.
Thank you,
Rad
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