Downloading Content from VIDA

The Downloads Page in VIDA is where you can access content that has been made available to you. Whether it's one file or a full package, VIDA supports fast, flexible downloads via Aspera Connect and HTTP — with single or multi-select options.

✉️ Step 1: Open your download from the notification email

• When someone sends you content, you’ll receive a notification email

• Click the Open in VIDA button in the email

• You’ll be taken to the VIDA login screen

If you’re new, your account is automatically created with limited access the moment your first download is shared.

Need help logging in?
View our How to Login guide

Step 2: Access your download

After logging in, you’ll be taken directly to the Downloads tab.

• Your most recent package will open automatically

• If you have multiple download packages:

  • Use the Downloads tab to see the full list

  • Click on a package to open it

Step 3: Choose your download method

Once inside the package, you’ll have multiple options depending on what you want to download:

Option A: Download the entire package

• In the top-right corner, choose:

  • Download with folders — preserves original folder structure

  • Download without folders — flattens all files into one directory

At an individual asset level, you can download via:

• Downalod: Aspera Connect (recommended for large/bulk downloads)

• Download in Browser: HTTPS (browser-based; better for small or quick downloads)
  

✅ Option B: Download selected assets

• Tick the checkbox next to one or more assets

• Then choose:

  • Download with folders

  • Download without folders

• Your download will begin using the selected method (Aspera or HTTP)
  

Step 4: Start and monitor your download

• A message will confirm that your download is starting

• If using Aspera, your browser may prompt you to allow Aspera Connect

  • Click Yes or Always allow

• The Aspera Connect window will launch, where you can monitor your transfer progress 

Troubleshooting

Download isn’t starting?

If your download doesn't begin and you see a blank screen or connection error:

• You may not have Aspera Connect installed
  View our guide for downloading with Aspera Connect

⚠️ Download stuck or failing in Aspera?

If you see errors in Aspera Connect, such as:

• UDP connection errors

• SSH authentication failures

• Firewall/port-related issues

These indicate that your network may be blocking Aspera traffic.

To resolve:

• Run Aspera diagnostics if prompted

• Then contact your IT team and ask them to whitelist VIDA’s Aspera server

If needed, we can provide the specific server address and port details to pass on to your IT team — just submit a support ticket using the blue button at the top of this page.