How to unblock apps to download files stored in the cloud on Windows 10

Starting with the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update, in order to give you more control over file downloads, you'll now see a toast notification with the file description, download progress, and an option to cancel the download when an app tries to open a file only available online from services, such as OneDrive or Dropbox.

The only problem is that after blocking the app, future downloads will trigger "The cloud operation was aborted" message preventing you from accessing the file, which in some cases it can make the app unusable.

If you change your mind, or you block automatic file downloads on an app by mistake, the updated Settings app now provides a new option to quickly unblock apps on your device.

In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through the easy steps to remove the block and allow apps to download files stored from cloud storage services to your computer.

How to allow automatic file downloads on Windows 10

In order to unblock apps to request file downloads automatically from OneDrive or other cloud storage services, use the following steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click on Privacy.
  3. Click on Automatic file downloads.
  4. Click the Allow button.

In the "Automatic file downloads" page, you won't see a list of apps that you blocked, instead there only one button that unblocks all apps to previously blocked to requests automatic file downloads.

Quick Tip: If you haven't seen this feature in action, you can try uploading a music track to OneDrive, make the file available only-online, and then try open the file using Windows Media Player.

More Windows 10 resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10, visit the following resources:

Mauro Huculak

Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he's a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.