Data Transfers · Downloads and large files

Why does the log say a transfer can't be resumed part-way?

Short answer: Part-way resume only works for one large file downloading to your Mac from a source that can send partial files. Uploads, cloud-to-cloud transfers, folders and servers that only send whole files run in one pass instead.

Resuming part-way only applies to one large file coming down to your Mac from a source that can send part of a file. When a transfer doesn't fit, the log explains which case you hit:

  • "This service can't send part of a file…" — the server only sends whole files, so the download runs in one pass.
  • "Resuming part-way only works when the file is coming down to this Mac." — uploads and cloud-to-cloud transfers run in one pass.
  • "This transfer isn't a single file…" — folders don't need it; a rerun just sends what's missing.

None of these is an error; the transfer still runs. It just means an interruption restarts that one file rather than continuing it.

Related: Large downloads that resume

Applies to Storage Studio 4.16 and later · Last reviewed

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