Ever tried to download something super important with your trusty Internet Download Manager (IDM), only to be hit with that frustrating message: “Permission denied. Please check your firewall Settings and ensure that IDM has permits to access the Internet.”? It’s a common hiccup that can stop your downloads dead in their tracks, and it’s definitely annoying.
But don’t sweat it! We know how frustrating it can be when your favorite download tool isn’t working as it should. The good news is, fixing this “permission denied” error is usually much simpler than you might think, often requiring just a few clicks. We’re here to guide you through a super quick and easy solution that will get IDM back to downloading bliss in no time.
In this friendly, step-by-step guide, you’ll discover exactly why this error pops up and, more importantly, how to easily add Internet Download Manager to your Windows Firewall exceptions. By following our clear instructions, you’ll allow IDM to access the internet freely on both private and public networks, ensuring your downloads run smoothly again. Let’s get started!
Fixing the IDM Firewall ‘Permission Denied’ Error
This error typically happens because your Windows Firewall is doing its job a little too well, blocking IDM from connecting to the internet. To get things working again, you just need to tell your firewall that IDM is a friendly application and allow it access. Here’s how to do it:
- Open Windows Search: Press the Windows key + S on your keyboard to quickly open the search bar. This is usually the quickest way to find system settings.
- Search for Firewall Settings: In the search bar, type “allow an app through Windows Firewall”. From the search results, select the option that says “Allow an app through Windows Firewall” or “Allow an app through Windows Defender Firewall”.
- Change Settings: In the “Allowed apps” window that appears, click on the “Change settings” button. You might see a User Account Control (UAC) prompt asking for permission – just click “Yes” to proceed, as you’ll need administrator privileges for this step.
- Find Internet Download Manager: Now, scroll through the list of allowed apps and features. Look for “Internet Download Manager” in the list.
- Add IDM if Not Listed: If you don’t see “Internet Download Manager” in the list, no worries! Click on the “Allow another app…” button at the bottom right.
- Browse for IDM’s Executable: A new small window will pop up. Click the “Browse…” button. You’ll need to navigate to where IDM is installed on your computer. Usually, you’ll find it here:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Internet Download Manager. - Select IDMan.exe: Once you’re in the “Internet Download Manager” folder, select the main executable file, which is
IDMan.exe, and then click “Open.” - Add IDM to the List: Back in the “Add an app” window, click “Add” to officially include IDM in the list of allowed applications.
- Verify Network Access (Crucial Step!): After IDM has been added to the list, locate “Internet Download Manager” again. Make absolutely sure that both the checkboxes for “Private” and “Public” are checked next to its name. This ensures IDM can connect to the internet whether you’re at home (private network) or connected to a public Wi-Fi spot.
- Save Your Changes: Finally, click “OK” to save all the changes you’ve made and close the Windows Defender Firewall window.
That’s it! You have successfully allowed IDM through your Windows Firewall. Now, IDM should be able to access the Internet without any more “permission denied” messages or firewall-related headaches. You can now go back to enjoying seamless, uninterrupted downloading!
Remember, keeping your firewall settings updated and ensuring only trusted applications like IDM have access is always a good practice for your computer’s security. Happy downloading!