Internet Download Accelerator 7.3 for Windows

Internet Download Accelerator 7.3 is a download manager for Windows from WestByte Software. You can download Internet Download Accelerator from the developer's site to speed up large downloads, resume interrupted ones and keep all your files in one organised list.

Specifications

What it does

Internet Download Accelerator, often shortened to IDA, has been on Windows PCs since 2002. Its main job is to take downloads away from the browser and handle them better. A file is split into several parts that download at the same time, which can make better use of your connection, and if the connection drops, the download continues from where it stopped instead of starting again. The program hooks into browsers, so clicking a download link hands it over automatically, and it sorts files into categories such as programs, music and video. A scheduler lets you queue big files for the night, and speed limits keep downloads from choking the connection while others at home are online. Downloads from FTP servers are supported too. Wikidata lists its licence as adware, which matches the free edition: it shows advertising, and the developer sells versions without it.

How to install it

1. Open the official download page.
2. Run the installer and read each screen; decline extra offers you do not need.
3. Allow the browser integration when asked, or add it later in the settings.
4. Start a download from your browser and check that IDA picks it up.

Requirements

The program runs on Windows and is light on resources. Browser integration depends on the browser version, so update IDA when you update your browser.

Safety

Take IDA only from westbyte.com. A download manager does not make files safer, so scan what you download. Avoid cracked "pro" versions from other sites; they are a frequent source of malware.

Price

The basic edition is free with ads; paid editions remove advertising.

Tips

Set a separate folder for each category so finished files do not pile up in one place. If a site offers a direct link and a mirror list, add both; IDA can switch to another source when one is slow. For very large files, schedule the download for a time when nobody else needs the connection, and let the program shut down the PC afterwards if you leave it overnight.

Version note

The version history lists every change; check it for newer builds before installing.

Pros and cons

• Pro: resumes broken downloads.
• Pro: browser integration and categories.
• Pro: scheduler and speed limits.
• Con: ads in the free edition.
• Con: installer may include offers.

Alternatives

Other download managers on our site include Free Download Manager, JDownloader, Xtreme Download Manager (XDM) and Internet Download Manager.