I used to have this issue too. First verify if you are using the most recent update of Firefox. Go to Help tab to verify version and if it shows Version xx is available for download follow to the Mozilla download page.

Two: Skip to this step if you already have the latest version installed. Next. Go under the Tools tab and choose Options. Look under the 'General' Menu for Downloads. Which download path is showing? Have you checked the 'Save files to' option next Browse where you would like all downloads placed by default.

You can have the option 'Always ask me where to save files' as an alternative to choose where you want the downloads placed on your PC.

Hope this was informative and solves your issue. If not please specify if you are running Windows, Linux, Mac and what OS version. Thanks.

um... i just turned 18, but i've had this problem for a long time. I don't see a "tools" section, but it is checked. I'm using Windows Vista.

Ok Windows vista. Can you download a small file or is it a large file you are attempting to download? You have searched the Documents section and desktop. When you login to your PC do you have Administrative access. Verify what version you are using of Firefox and please include here. If you cannot locate the tools tab do you see Options or the File and Edit tabs? If not press F11 to go to full screen and then F11 to go back to regular view mode. Until I know what version you are using I cannot help further. I suggest looking for options > privacy options and make sure Firefox remember history is checked. Temporarily disable AV software as it may be scanning the file and not downloading because it believes it is infected. Hope you locate your answer soon I have a laptop that runs on Vista but I have not heard of this issue before.

i can't download anything. I download music a lot and pictures. it constantly says there is a shortcut, but it can't find the picture. same with music or anything else i download. Yes I have administrative access. i have the 6.0.2 version. i do have an options tab and my F keys don't really do anything since they affect the settings of my laptop. remember history is checked and i tried disabling the AV software. it still didn't work.