Changing Default Download Folder Target Location vs Changing Default Download Location In Browser

[jdc1078]

I have read multiple threads relating to the topic of pointing default windows folders to new target location (i.e., Redirecting Downloads folder to HDD instead of SSD through Windows Explorer), but I have not found an answer to my question(s). After reading this, if anyone knows of the thread, please direct me.

My initial question is what is the difference between changing default download location through web browser, and changing the target location through windows explorer? If I just change it using Windows Explorer (Right Click Folder>Properties>Location>so on, and so forth....), does that mean I do not have to change the default downloads location in my web browser? I am an estimator that uses a data heavy program for my takeoffs, and I also download fairly large files of architectural plans, so I understand the need to install my program onto my SSD, and to download my files to my HDD, but can't I just change the default download location in my web browser and that be all? Direct all downloads to go to the HDD? Is there an absolute need/necessity to go through the process of changing target locations through Windows Explorer? I am not saying that I don't want to, because if there is a need/necessity, then I will certainly do it, but I guess my question is about being uneducated, rather than obstinate. If when I download something from the internet, I have already directed my downloads to my HDD through the web browser settings, what is the purpose of the Windows Explorer process? Or am I singling out the "Downloads" aspect unnecessarily? I think I can understand about pointing the default "Documents" folder to the target HDD location, as windows will automatically direct files to the default location (the location of the Windows install, if I am correct?), and so changing that target location to the HDD will keep things like scans and such off of the SSD, reducing clutter on my SSD. But again, maybe I'm just not understanding enough about it. Please be kind in your answers.

Thank you.

 

[elbert]

All programs download to where their software points. Valve games for example and just a common place for browsers. Set it in the browser or other programs where you want software downloaded and or installed to. The link its just an example as all programs control their own locations.
https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=7418-YUBN-8129

 

[JackNaylorPE]

When you download a file using a browser, you can tell it where to download or you can tell it to ask you every time. I just ignore Windows default locations and never saw a need to change them. I send them ALL to the same location. I find the concept of sending all files to a single location illogical and store all downloaded files in a directed structure beginning with G:\Download\ ... For example:

G:\Download\Adobe
G:\Download\AutoDesk
G:\Download\Games

Each of those directories has subdirectories for individual programs, versions, etc