How to Add IDM Internet Download Manager Extension to Google Chrome Browser

by

How to Add IDM (Internet Download Manager) Extension to Google Chrome Browser

Downloading large files can often be a tedious task, especially when your internet connection is unstable or when downloading from a site that limits download speeds. This is where Internet Download Manager (IDM) comes into play—optimizing the download process, ensuring faster downloads through multi-threading, and providing management features that enhance user experience. One crucial component of IDM is its browser extension, which helps you integrate IDM functionality directly into your web surfing experience, thereby streamlining the download process. In this article, we will take you through a detailed step-by-step approach to adding the IDM extension to the Google Chrome browser.

Step 1: Ensure You Have IDM Installed

Before getting started with the extension, it is imperative to have Internet Download Manager installed on your system. If you haven’t installed it yet, follow these instructions:

  1. Download IDM: Go to the official IDM website (www.internetdownloadmanager.com) and download the latest version of the software.

  2. Install IDM: Once the download is complete, locate the setup file (usually in your ‘Downloads’ folder), double-click it, and follow the on-screen instructions to install IDM.

  3. Launch IDM: After completion, open the program. You should see the main IDM interface.

It’s crucial to note that IDM is a paid software, and while a trial version is available, you might want to purchase a license for continuous usage.

Step 2: Install the IDM Integration Module Extension

The next step is to install the IDM extension, which is crucial for Google Chrome integration. Here’s how to do it:

Option A: Installation via IDM Interface

  1. Open IDM: Start the Internet Download Manager application.

  2. Navigate to the ‘General’ tab: On the main screen of IDM, click on Downloads in the top menu and select Options.

  3. Go to the ‘General’ tab: Within the Options window, navigate to the General tab. Here you will find a button labeled Add browsers....

  4. Select Chrome: You should see a list of browsers. Check the box next to Google Chrome to select it. If Google Chrome is not listed, you may need to install Chrome before proceeding.

  5. Click OK: Click the OK button to save the settings. This action automatically installs the IDM integration module in Chrome.

Option B: Manual Installation of the Extension

Should the automatic way not work, you may have to install the necessary extension manually:

  1. Open Chrome: Start your Google Chrome browser.

  2. Go to the Chrome Web Store: In the address bar, type chrome.google.com/webstore and hit Enter. This will take you to the Chrome Web Store.

  3. Search for IDM Integration: Type IDM Integration into the search bar at the top left of the Chrome Web Store page. This should bring up the IDM Integration Module.

  4. Install the Extension: Click on the official IDM Integration Module link, followed by clicking the Add to Chrome button.

  5. Confirmation Window: A pop-up will prompt you to confirm the addition of the extension. Click on Add extension in the confirmation window. The extension will start downloading, and the installation should complete shortly.

  6. Check the Extension: After installation, you should see the IDM logo (a small red icon) on the upper right corner of your Chrome browser. This indicates that the extension has been successfully integrated.

Step 3: Configuring the IDM Extension

Once installed, you can customize how IDM interacts with Chrome and how the extension behaves while you download files.

  1. Access IDM Options: Go back to the IDM application, click on Downloads, and choose Options.

  2. Move to the ‘General’ tab: Here you can confirm that the IDM Integration Module is checked and is indeed integrating with Google Chrome.

  3. Set File Types: Move to the File Types section. Here, customize the file types you want IDM to handle. By default, IDM handles most common file types, such as video, audio, archives, and more. Add any additional file extensions that you frequently download.

  4. Check the ‘Advanced’ tab: In the Advanced tab, you can configure how IDM will behave with different types of downloads. For instance, you can set it to automatically grab downloads when they start or require user confirmation.

  5. Save Changes: After making your desired changes, ensure that you click on the OK button to apply the settings.

Step 4: Testing the Extension

With IDM and the browser extension installed and configured, it’s important to test whether the extension is functioning correctly. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Chrome: Launch your Chrome browser.

  2. Visit a Download Source: Navigate to a website that offers files to download. For example, visit a site with a downloadable PDF, video, or software.

  3. Initiate a Download: Click on the file link to start the download.

  4. Check IDM Integration: If your impression of the integration is correct, a pop-up will appear from IDM asking to manage the download. Click on Download with IDM, and your file should begin downloading within the IDM application.

  5. Monitor the Download: Open the IDM application to check the download progress. You can also manage your downloads, pause, resume, or prioritize them as needed.

Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues

In the process of integrating IDM with Google Chrome, you might encounter issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Issue 1: The IDM Extension Not Appearing

If the IDM extension does not appear in Google Chrome, the following steps may help:

  1. Reinstall the Extension: Go back to the Chrome Web Store, remove the IDM extension, and reinstall it.

  2. Update IDM: Ensure that you have the latest version of IDM installed; outdated versions may not work with new Chrome updates.

Issue 2: Downloads Not Captured

If IDM isn’t capturing your downloads despite the integration:

  1. Check Settings: Confirm that the IDM integration settings in the Options menu are correctly set up to handle the desired file types.

  2. Check Proxy Settings: If you are using a proxy in Chrome, ensure that IDM is also configured to use the same proxy settings.

Issue 3: IDM Speed Not Optimal

Sometimes, users report that the download speed using IDM is slower than expected:

  1. Check Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and high-speed internet connection.

  2. Check IDM Settings: Go to Options -> Connection in IDM and ensure that your connection type is set to the correct speed.

Conclusion

Adding the IDM extension to Google Chrome can significantly enhance your downloading experience, allowing you to manage and accelerate your downloads efficiently. Whether downloading large files like videos, software, or documents, the integration simplifies the process and provides greater control.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should have IDM fully integrated with your Chrome browser and functioning optimally. Remember that troubleshooting various issues might sometimes be necessary, but mastering the integration will save you time and frustration in the long run. Internet Download Manager is a powerful tool, and with the right setup, you can maximize its features and enjoy seamless downloading.

Happy downloading!

Leave a Comment