Brightspace Frequently Asked Questions
Check out our newly updated Brightspace FAQs! This list runs through the most common questions the Brightspace Support Team gets throughout the year. If you have any questions not listed here, be sure to contact our Support team for assistance.
The method for downloading a document in Brightspace will vary depending on what Content view a course uses. Additionally, in the Classic Content view, the type of the original file and the web browser you are using also impacts how students can download files.聽
Updated Summer 2026
Downloading a file in the New Content Experience
If your course is using the New Content Experience, you can download any file by opening it and clicking on the Download icon in the top right. This icon will appear on any content page whether it is an uploaded file, or a HTML web page.聽
Downloading a file in Classic Content
If you're course is using the Classic Content view, how you can download files varies based on the type of file, and your web browser. For these examples, we are using Google Chrome as it's both the most popular web browser and the most compatible with Brightspace.聽
Downloading a PDF file (.pdf)
For a PDF, the download button is at the top of the document frame.
Downloading a Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file (.docx, xlsx, or .pptx)
For a Microsoft Office file, you can click the download button at the top of the document viewer.
Downloading a Page or HTML file
For a Page or HTML file, students can download the file by opening it, clicking the down arrow beside the Page name, then clicking Download.聽
Note: Some aspects of HTML pages may not work after downloading if there are embedded files or tools like Kaltura videos or interactive elements from integrated tools.聽
