Error message: "The item couldn't be downloaded. Please check your internet connection, then try again."

My Internet connection is fine, the connection is capable of streaming 4K so that is not the problem.


For example, if I have files and folders synced with iCloud and "Optimise Mac Storage" enabled, I have to open the Folder to download the files it contains, I cannot just download the entire Folder (with its contents). If I have a Folder with numerous files and other Folders inside that Folder, the time it takes to open each Folder and download its files is unnecessarily time consuming.


TIA for any advice, or is it a bug?



MacBook Pro Apple Silicon 2023

Posted on Feb 23, 2023 04:21 AM

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6 replies

Feb 24, 2023 12:47 PM in response to Bikerbandit

Hi Bikerbandit,


To clarify, are you referring to using Desktop and Documents with iCloud on your Mac? If so, are you able to search for specific file names with Spotlight search? The information in the article here mentions how you can locate your data. Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive


"On your Mac

You can find your Desktop and Documents folders in the iCloud section of the Finder sidebar. If you add a second Mac Desktop, you can find those files in the Desktop folder in iCloud Drive. Look for a folder with the same name as your second Mac. You can also use Spotlight to search for specific file names."



Additionally, you should be able to download items as outlined below, found from this resource: Work with folders and files in iCloud Drive


"Download items stored only in iCloud Drive to your Mac

In some cases, items may be stored in iCloud Drive but may not yet be downloaded to your Mac. 

  1. Control-click the items that you want to download (indicated by the In iCloud status icon ).
  2. Choose Download Now.
  3. After the items are on your Mac, you can work with them without an internet connection."



Regarding the connection alert you can also check your settings to ensure there's no firewall or configuration blocking the communication.


Change Firewall settings on Mac - Apple Support

Recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points - Apple Support



If the issue remains, reach out to Apple Support directly to further assist.


Contact - Official Apple Support


Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support



Cheers.

Feb 27, 2023 12:10 AM in response to OrigamiFan1

Yes, I am referring to the Desktop and Documents folders in iCloud.


However, the problem is not as you described. I will try to simplify further.


If I open the Desktop folder in Finder, I am handed a collections of folders and files that mirrors what is on my physical Desktop. All the files and folders have the iCloud symbol as they are stored in the cloud.


When I Cmd-Click on a FOLDER and choose "Download Now, it throws up the error in the title of this post.

However, if I open the folder and Cmd-Click on a FILE and choose "Download Now" the FILE will download. I can select all files and they will download, but I cannot download the entire containing FOLDER.

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Error message: "The item couldn't be downloaded. Please check your internet connection, then try again."

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