This article provides solutions to common backup archive and installer download issues, including files not downloading, corrupted downloads, or 404 errors.

Backup Download Issues

Issues with downloading backup files (archive or installer) can be caused by server settings, browser restrictions, or plugin conflicts. Follow these solutions to resolve the issue.

Solution 1: Use Direct URL Download

Some browsers block requests to non-SSL assets due to server MIME type restrictions. To bypass this issue:

1. Go to Duplicator » Backups, click the plus icon to expand the backup details, and click the button View Details
2. Under the General section, click the button Share File Links
3. Copy the archive URL.
4. Paste the URL into a new browser window to trigger the download.

Solution 2: Download via FTP

If the browser download fails, retrieve the backup files via FTP or cPanel:

• Duplicator Pro: Navigate to /your_site/wordpress_root/wp-content/backups-dup-pro (or the custom storage path).
• Duplicator Lite: The path will be one of the following:
  • /public_html/wp-content/backups-dup-lite/
  • /public_html/wp-snapshots/ (legacy path)

Solution 3: Contact Your Hosting Provider

Some hosting providers block certain file types (.zip, .daf, .php). If downloads are persistently failing, contact your host to verify if any restrictions apply.

Solution 4: Disable .htaccess File

The .htaccess file inside the storage directory can interfere with downloads. To disable it:

• Duplicator Pro: Go to Settings » Storage and check Disable .htaccess File In Storage Directory, then save.
• Duplicator Lite: Go to Settings » General and enable the same option, then save.

Solution 5: Adjust MIME Types

Incorrect MIME type settings on the web server can block downloads. To configure them correctly, add the following to your .htaccess file:

AddType application/octet-stream .zip .log .sql .daf

For other web servers, consult your hosting provider for proper configuration.

Solution 6: Check Browser Settings

Ensure your browser settings allow downloads of specific file types:

• In Firefox, go to Options » General » Applications and set zip files to “Always Ask.”
• Try a different browser if downloads continue to fail.

Solution 7: Verify WordPress URL Settings

Incorrect WordPress URL settings can cause download failures. To fix this:

1. Go to WordPress Admin » Settings.
2. Ensure both the WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL) use HTTPS.
3. If these fields are disabled, update them via https://yoursite.com/wp-admin/options.php.

For a full guide on changing these settings, see this article.

Installer Download Issues

If you can download the archive but not the installer file, try these solutions.

Solution 1: Use Backup Installer

The installer file is included inside the backup archive. Extract the backup archive to find the installer. The installer file name inside the backup archive can be:

• installer-backup.php
• For secure installers: [hash]_installer-backup.php

If your backup is in .daf format, follow this guide to extract the backup archive.

Solution 2: Rename the Installer

Some hosting providers block PHP file downloads. To bypass this:

1. Go to Duplicator Pro » Settings » Backups Tab » Advanced Settings Tab.
2. Rename Local Installer Name to installer.txt.
3. Download the file and rename it back to installer.php before using it.

Corrupted Installer File

If the installer file appears corrupted after download, follow the steps in this article on fixing PHP/binary code display or download prompt issues.