Downloading Files

Downloading Files
Mac Tip #116/27-Aug-2003

When you download a file it means you are copying it from another computer (often called a “server”) and putting it on your own computer. For example, I want to buy a new digital camera.

As part of my research I may go to the Canon website and click on a link for a brochure, or perhaps a short video about the camera. When the brochure or the video are transferred to my computer that’s downloading it.

If I take photos and send them to a server so others can view them then that process is called “uploading”.

Another time you might “download” files is when you choose to obtain software. For example, you might choose to download a newer version of your web browser software (such as Internet Explorer or Safari), your email software (such as Eudora or Outlook Express) or to get fun items such as games or utilities to make your Mac work more smoothly.

Let’s say you have Mac OS X but are still using Internet Explorer as your web browser. This software is now becoming rather outdated and Microsoft have announced they won’t be improving it.

You might choose to switch to Safari, a sleek, fast, modern browser. Download it from www.apple.com/safari.

Near the top of that page you’ll see a compass icon with the words Download Safari beside it. Click there and then you’ll have to fill in a small form on the next page. Notice the system requirements: you must be running Mac OS X version 10.2 “Jaguar”.

Now you can click the Download Safari button and you’ll have to wait while the file is downloaded into your computer.

Safari’s about 6.2 Mb. If you use a dial-up 56 Kb modem this will take about 15 minutes. On my broadband high-speed cable modem it took about 15 seconds.