The reasons why iCloud files may download slowly on MacBook devices can be varied. In this tutorial, you'll see step-by-step what you need to do to resolve this slow download issue of files stored in iCloud, assuming you have a good internet connection and sufficient storage space.
Limited storage space or the high price for MacBook devices with larger storage capacity are reasons why using iCloud for file and photo storage is essential. To ensure that personal files and photos take up as little storage space on your MacBook as possible, it's recommended to sync and store them in iCloud.
For iCloud users who keep Desktop and Documents synced in iCloud Drive, the problem of slow file downloads often arises, even for small-sized files.
Apparently, this issue of slow iCloud file downloads on MacBook devices seems to be due to an unstable internet connection. However, if this is not the case, you can resolve this issue by following the tips and settings in the guide below.
What to do if iCloud files are downloading slowly on MacBook?
If iCloud files are downloading slowly on MacBook even though you have a stable internet connection and sufficient storage space for downloading files to your device, then it's good to check if the energy-saving mode is not preventing file downloads.
Compared to Mac or iMac computers, MacBook devices have an energy resource management system to extend battery life. The user can choose to have "Low Power Mode" activated or deactivated depending on the power source.
When the MacBook is not connected to the power adapter and the energy-saving mode is activated, many macOS system services are stopped or run in a slower mode. So, if iCloud files are downloading slowly on MacBook, also check if "Low Power Mode" is activated.
Related: Learn more about Low Power Mode.
In my case, with the MacBook Pro disconnected from the power adapter and "Low Power Mode" deactivated (meaning everything should normally work without restrictions), iCloud files downloaded extremely slowly until I connected the MacBook to the power source.
In conclusion, if you have a MacBook and iCloud Drive files are downloading very slowly or the download process is getting stuck, you should consider the following:
1. Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection. Use an online speed test service for download/upload speed measurement. If you own a MacBook, you likely have a Wi-Fi connection. Make sure the wireless connection signal is good, stable, and free from interference.
2. Make sure there are no other programs running on macOS that use a lot of bandwidth while downloading files from iCloud.
3. When Desktop or Documents files are synchronized in iCloud Drive, practically only their icons are kept on the MacBook's storage space to avoid taking up local storage space. When downloading files from iCloud, ensure you have sufficient local storage space for them.
4. heck the availability of the iCloud Drive service. Sometimes Apple's servers may not function properly, causing iCloud files to download slowly on MacBook. Access Apple System Status to check if the service is operational.
5. Ensure that the MacBook is connected to the power source, even if "Low Power Mode" is not activated when the device is using battery power.
By following the above tips, the issue of downloading files from iCloud Drive on MacBook devices will be resolved.
