What Is a .PARTIAL File?
Your browser left a .partial file where the real download should be. It is an unfinished download. Here is how to finish, resume or safely remove it.
What a .partial file is
A .partial file is an incomplete download written by Microsoft Edge and older Firefox versions — the browser's equivalent of Chrome's .crdownload. It holds the bytes received so far, named after the real file with .partial appended, e.g. download.zip.partial.
Why it is still there
The download stalled — the connection dropped, the browser closed, or the transfer was cancelled mid-way. Until the rest arrives, the file is unusable.
How to finish it
Open your browser's downloads list (Ctrl+J) and click Resume. If the entry is gone, download the file again from the source.
Is it safe to delete?
Yes, once the download is dead — you only lose the partial data. Do not delete one that is still actively downloading.
FAQ
Can I open a .partial file?
No, it is incomplete and has no usable content until the download finishes.
Is it safe to delete a .partial file?
Yes, if the download failed or you no longer need it. Never delete one that is still downloading.
Which browsers create .partial files?
Microsoft Edge and older Firefox versions. Chrome uses .crdownload for the same purpose.