Using VIDA's Downloads Page
Open content that's been shared with you, and download it using IBM Aspera for Desktop or your browser.
Overview
The Downloads page in VIDA is where you access content that's been shared with you — whether that's a single file or a full package.
You can download using IBM Aspera for Desktop, which is recommended for large or bulk downloads, or directly through your browser, which is better suited to smaller or one-off downloads. This article explains how to find your download and choose the right method.
Before You Begin
If you plan to download large files or full packages regularly, install IBM Aspera for Desktop before you start. It transfers files faster and more reliably than a browser download, especially for bulk packages.
See Installing & Setting up IBM Aspera for Desktop if you haven't set this up yet. If you'd rather download through your browser, no extra setup is needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Open your download from the notification email
- When someone shares content with you, you'll receive a notification email.
- Click Open in VIDA in the email.
- You'll be taken to the VIDA login screen.
If this is your first time receiving content from VIDA, your account is created automatically with limited access as soon as it's shared with you.
Need help logging in? See VIDA: How to Login.
Step 2 — Access your download
After logging in, you'll be taken to the Downloads tab.
- Your most recent package opens automatically.
- If you have more than one package, use the Downloads tab to see the full list and click on a package to open it.
Step 3 — Choose your download method
Once inside a package, you can download the whole package or select individual assets.
To download the whole package:
- Click Download all via Aspera to download every file into a single location.
- Click the arrow next to it and choose Download all via Aspera in Folders to preserve your organisation's folder structure instead.
- To download through your browser instead of Aspera, use the browser download option shown alongside the Aspera buttons.
To download individual assets:
- Tick the checkbox next to one or more assets.
- Click the Download all via Aspera icon, or use the browser download option, to download only the assets you've selected.
IBM Aspera for Desktop is recommended for large files or full packages. Browser downloads are better suited to a small number of smaller files.
Step 4 — Start and monitor your download
- A message confirms that your download is starting.
- If you're using Aspera, IBM Aspera for Desktop launches automatically. If your browser prompts you to allow it to communicate with the application, click Allow.
- Monitor your transfer in the Transfer Activity window in IBM Aspera for Desktop. Browser downloads appear in your browser's own downloads list.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
This is usually caused by IBM Aspera for Desktop not being installed, or your browser permissions not being configured correctly. See Downloading Files using IBM Aspera for Desktop for full setup and troubleshooting steps.
Use IBM Aspera for Desktop for large files or full packages — it transfers faster and more reliably. Use your browser for a small number of smaller files, or if you can't install additional software on your device.
Check the following:
- You're logged in with the email address the content was shared with.
- You're on the Downloads tab, not the Orders tab.
- Use the search bar on the Downloads page to search by filename or the sender's name.
See VIDA: How to Login if you're unsure which account to use.
If you have any questions or need assistance downloading content from VIDA, please submit a support ticket. We're always happy to help.
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