SharePoint is a powerful collaboration tool that allows users to store, share, and collaborate on documents and files. 

However, there may be instances where you want to prevent users from downloading certain files for security or compliance reasons. 

In this article, we will discuss how to prevent users from downloading files in SharePoint.


Outcome of change:

These restrictions do not apply to owners.

    • User cannot download file.


Steps to Prevent Users from Downloading Files in SharePoint

  1. Create Contribute without download permission
  1. Go to Site Settings > Site Permissions.

 

  1. Click on Permission Levels.

 

 

  1. Click on Contribute.

 

 

 

  1. Click Copy Permission Level on bottom right of page.

 

 

  1. Give it a name. Eg Contribute without download.

 

This setting will allow file download

Open Items  -  View the source of documents with server-side file handlers.

 

Select the checkboxes below for minimal rights

 

 

 

Click Create.

 

 

 

2. Assign Contribute without download permission to SharePoint group.

 

 

Before setting

 

After setting




Troubleshooting

If users are still able to download files even after following the above steps, there may be a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue:

  • Double-check that you have selected the correct group or user to restrict.
  • Make sure that the correct permission level had been assigned for the selected group or user.
  • Clear the browser cache and try again.
  • Check if the user has access to the file through another group or permission level.

Conclusion

Preventing users from downloading files in SharePoint can help improve the security of your data. 

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can restrict download to certain files and ensure that your data is protected.