5-10 seconds to start a download
Firefox takes about 5 to 10 seconds to ask me where to download a file after I click on a link. What is happening?
All Replies (1)
Hi Blagg,
That short delay before the download prompt appears in Firefox on Windows 11 is something a few users have reported recently — it’s usually caused by Firefox waiting for a response from Windows or security software before showing the “Save As” dialog.
Here are a few things you can check to reduce or eliminate the delay:
1. Check antivirus or security software
Some antivirus programs (like Windows Defender, BitDefender, or Avast) scan files before Firefox even opens the download prompt. Try temporarily turning off “Real-time protection” or “Web protection” to test whether the delay disappears. If it does, add Firefox to your antivirus exclusion list.
2. Disable “Scan files after download” policy (advanced)
If you’re comfortable with the Registry Editor, the delay can come from Windows Defender’s SmartScreen or Attachment Manager checks. You can test by running:
windowsdefender://settings
and temporarily turning off Check apps and files. Then restart Firefox and see if downloads start instantly.
3. Try Troubleshoot Mode
Menu → Help → Troubleshoot Mode… → Restart. If the delay disappears, one of your extensions may be intercepting download requests.
This isn’t a browser bug in most cases — it’s usually Windows security or a scanning delay before Firefox can display the file picker. If you notice this after a Windows update, adding Firefox to Defender’s allowed list often fixes it immediately.