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User profile for user: btlbcc
btlbcc Author
User level: Level 1
9 points

Move Downlaods File?

I have for years had the downloads file in the finder, with all saved files going to that file. This is my general catch-all & reference library, containing pretty much anything I want to keep in sub-folders. In particular, instruction manuals and datasheets for equipmemt. So far, so good, and that downloads file is working fine....except that with the newer versions of MacOS, there is another "downloads": folder several layers down in the "users" folder, and the OS automatically saves everything to that (harder to get at) "downloads" folder. This is a nuisance.


How can I make my original downloads folder the default downloads folder? I have no particular need for the "downloads" folder in the "users" folder; can it be (safely) eliminated completely? Or will the OS, being smarter than I, automatically re-instate it?


Posted on Jul 7, 2019 8:43 AM

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User profile for user: babowa
babowa
User level: Level 9
78,429 points

Posted on Jul 7, 2019 8:49 AM

You simply enter that in your browser's preferences. I have my desktop as my preferred location. I park it there temporarily until I have time to install it or file it in an appropriate folder.


Having said that, the downloads folder should be treated as a temporary holding bin rather than permanent storage - you can easily file away your stuff by putting it in your Documents folder/create subfolders. Apps should be installed in the Applications folder and the .dmg can be deleted after that.

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User profile for user: babowa
babowa
User level: Level 9
78,429 points

Jul 7, 2019 8:49 AM in response to btlbcc

You simply enter that in your browser's preferences. I have my desktop as my preferred location. I park it there temporarily until I have time to install it or file it in an appropriate folder.


Having said that, the downloads folder should be treated as a temporary holding bin rather than permanent storage - you can easily file away your stuff by putting it in your Documents folder/create subfolders. Apps should be installed in the Applications folder and the .dmg can be deleted after that.

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Move Downlaods File?

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