• Open Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data > Allow cookies.
  • Open Safari > Settings > Privacy > Disable cross-site tracking.
  • Open Chrome > Settings > Reset > Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings.

Basic Fixes

  • Check internet connection: Check whether you have a stable internet connection on your desktop for downloading heavy files.
  • Use Incognito Mode: Open Incognito Mode on your browser and then try to download Google Drive files.
  • Update your browser: Install the latest version of your web browser to get rid of these issues.
  • Try a different browser: A different browser means no preferences or extensions. Start with a clean slate.

Fix 1: Enable Third-Party Cookies

On your browser, you should enable third-party cookies which are meant to improve your browsing experience. Blocking them can sometimes cause issues like these. We are using Chrome browser as an example.

Open Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data > Allow cookies .

allow all cookies chrome browser - 1

Fix 2: Clear Browser Cache

You should also try manually clearing temporary files of your browser like the cache files if you are still facing the same issue. Once done, log in using your Google account.

On Chrome

Step 1: Open Chrome > Settings .

Step 2: Under Privacy and security , click on Clear browsing data .

Step 3: Select the checkbox available next to Cached images and files . Uncheck others. Finally, hit the Clear data button.

Clear Chrome Cache Data 6 - 2

On Safari

Open Safari > Settings > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All .

Clear Safari Cache 2 - 3

Fix 3: Prevent Cross Tracking in Safari

If you are using the Safari browser on your Mac, we suggest disabling cross website tracking feature. It was suggested by users on Reddit and it seemed to worked for them.

Open Safari > Settings > Privacy > Disable cross-site tracking .

prevent cross site tracking safari - 4

Fix 4: Reset Google Chrome Settings

Sometimes, the issue could be due to an extension or incorrect settings. So resetting Chrome will fix it.

Open Chrome > Settings > Reset > Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings .

reset settings chrome - 5

Alternative: Use Google Drive Desktop App

You can install the Google Drive desktop app if nothing works out. The app installs on your desktop and lets you take control of your files.

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