WordPress GuidePlugins → Download Manager

Best WordPress download manager plugins

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WordPress download manager plugins: side-by-side

Here’s a quick overview of the top options.

1. Download Monitor

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Download Monitor is a lightweight plugin designed specifically for managing file downloads on WordPress. It creates a custom post type for your files, making it easy to add downloads anywhere on your site using shortcodes or blocks. You can track download counts, set access restrictions, and even require users to be logged in before downloading.

It’s clean, fast, and beginner-friendly, with advanced extensions available for more control.

Best for: Bloggers, educators, and businesses sharing free or gated content
Starting at: $39/year

2. WordPress Download Manager

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WordPress Download Manager is a feature-rich plugin that supports file protection, access control, download tracking, and even eCommerce functionality. You can password-protect files, limit downloads, and offer digital goods for sale with built-in cart features.

Its drag-and-drop file upload and category system make it scalable for large libraries of files.

Best for: Sites offering both free and paid downloads
Starting at: $59/year

3. Easy Digital Downloads

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While not strictly a download manager, Easy Digital Downloads (EDD) is the top choice for managing and selling downloadable products. It comes with full cart and checkout functionality, customer management, detailed reporting, and add-ons for licensing, subscriptions, and more.

If your main goal is selling digital files, EDD is hard to beat.

Best for: Selling digital goods like ebooks, software, or audio
Starting at: $99/year

4. FileBird

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FileBird isn’t a download manager in the traditional sense, but it improves your Media Library by adding folders and subfolders. If you manage hundreds of files and just need better organization (not restricted downloads), FileBird is a game-changer.

It works well with page builders and supports bulk management, drag-and-drop sorting, and folder-based navigation.

Best for: Organizing a large number of media files
Starting at: $39/year

5. WP File Download

WP File Download is a premium plugin that balances ease of use with advanced file management features. It includes a drag-and-drop interface, file previews, and customizable frontend file displays. You can restrict access by role, track downloads, and sync files from Google Drive or Dropbox.

Its visual customization tools make it ideal for branded client or internal portals.

Best for: Agencies and businesses sharing branded resources or internal files
Starting at: $49/year

6. MemberPress Downloads

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If you’re already using MemberPress for memberships, the Downloads add-on lets you protect and track file access per membership level. You can upload multiple files per post, control who sees what, and monitor usage.

It’s great for paid content delivery in a private members-only setup.

Best for: Membership sites offering premium downloads
Starting at: $179/year (includes core plugin)

7. Shared Files

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Shared Files is a simple and flexible plugin for adding downloadable files anywhere on your site. You can group files into categories, add short descriptions, display file sizes, and let users search or filter downloads.

It supports custom download links and includes some access control options, even in the free version.

Best for: Simple sites sharing public or semi-private files
Starting at: $19/year

What is a download manager?

In WordPress, a download manager is a plugin that helps you organize, display, and control access to downloadable files like PDFs, ZIPs, or documents. Unlike the basic Media Library, download manager plugins add features like file versioning, password protection, access control, and detailed reporting.

They also let you present files in a more user-friendly way, often with categories, search, or styled download buttons. Some even support selling files or limiting downloads per user.

Does your WordPress site need a download manager?

If you regularly share files, adding a download manager can simplify your workflow and improve your site’s user experience. Here are some specific use cases.

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