=== CM Download Manager – Organize, Protect & Share Files in WordPress ===
Name: CM Download Manager and File Manager
Contributors: CreativeMindsSolutions
Donate link: https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/downloadsmanager/
Tags: wordpress download manager, download manager plugin, documents management plugin, file sharing, secure downloads
Tested up to: 7.0
Stable tag: 3.1.1
Requires PHP: 5.2.4
License: GPLv2 or later
License URI: http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html

Manage and protect your downloads in WordPress with secure access, categories, and powerful file sharing.

== Description ==

[Pro Plugin Page](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/downloadsmanager/) | [Videos](https://www.videolessonsplugin.com/video-lesson/lesson/download-file-manager-plugin/) | [Demo](https://www.downloadmanagerplugin.com/) | [User Guide](https://creativeminds.helpscoutdocs.com/category/8-download-manager-cmdm) | [Add-ons](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/?showfilter=No&tags=DownloadAddOn) 

## Stop struggling with scattered files and poor organization

**Transform your WordPress site into a professional file management system** that organizes your documents securely, protects sensitive content, and provides an exceptional user experience.

This **WordPress download manager** plugin automatically creates a structured file directory that:

* **Organizes your files professionally** with categorized downloads and intuitive navigation
* **Protects your content** with user role permissions and password protection for secure access
* **Improves user engagement** through built-in support forums and download tracking
* **Boosts SEO performance** with organized content structure and internal linking
* **Scales with your business** from simple **file sharing** to enterprise **documents management plugin**

**10+ years of development** means you get a battle-tested **download manager plugin** solution trusted by businesses worldwide.

## How Can This Download Manager Plugin Help Your Website?

### Create Professional File Organization and User Experience

This **WordPress download manager** plugin operates by creating an intuitive download index that categorizes your files based on your preferences, enabling users to quickly locate what they need without digging through folders or searching for specific filenames.

The built-in **file manager plugin** creates a structured directory listing that's similar to professional plugin directories, making your site look more organized and trustworthy.

### Boost Security and Control Access to Your Files

This powerful **download manager plugin** tool includes comprehensive access control features, allowing you to define who can upload, view, and download files based on user roles. Administrators can set global permissions while users can customize access settings for each download.

## Premium Editions – Unlock Advanced File Management Power

The [**Download Manager Plugin** Premium version](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/downloadsmanager/) includes payment support using WooCommerce or Easy Digital Downloads, more robust shortcodes and support for zip files, **user file upload** management, notifications, moderation and more.

### Plugin Introduction Video (Pro Version)

[vimeo https://vimeo.com/108660448]

## What Can You Achieve with This WordPress Download Manager Plugin?

Transform your website into a comprehensive file management hub that improves organization, enhances security, and provides professional **file sharing** capabilities. This powerful **WordPress download manager** goes far beyond simple **user file upload**.

Our **WordPress download manager** solution transforms scattered files into a structured, professional system that search engines love.

Some features mentioned below are available in Pro editions only.

### 📁 File Organization & Management
* **Smart Directory Creation** - Automatically build a comprehensive, categorized file directory that grows with your content
* **Dynamic File Index** - Create organized download pages with screenshots, featured images, and structured content
* **Intelligent Content Organization** - Organize complex file collections into easily navigable, searchable categories

### 🔒 Security & Access Control
* **User Role Permissions** - Control who can upload, view, and download files based on WordPress user roles
* **Password Protection** - Secure sensitive downloads with password protection for enhanced security
* **View Restrictions** - Define access levels for each download, from public to role-specific access

### 👥 User Experience & Engagement
* **Built-in Support Forums** - Let users comment, vote, and discuss each download to build community
* **Download Tracking** - Monitor file usage with comprehensive download counters and user analytics
* **User Dashboards** - Provide personalized download management interfaces for registered users

### 🌐 Advanced Features & Integrations
* **Payment Integration** - Sell downloads with WooCommerce and Easy Digital Downloads support
* **Multiple User File Upload Options** - Upload multiple files to each download page with automatic zip creation
* **File Preview Options** - Show content previews with external viewers for PDF, DOC, and XLS files
* **Social Media Integration** - Connect with Facebook and LinkedIn for enhanced user registration

### 🔍 SEO & Search Optimization
* **Internal Linking Strategy** - Create a powerful internal linking structure that search engines love
* **Content Expansion** - Generate additional indexed pages for each download category
* **User Engagement Metrics** - Increase time on page through interactive download experiences

## Free Version Features - Essential Tools for Your WordPress Download Manager

Built with WordPress administrators and content managers in mind, this **download manager plugin** delivers the essential functionality you need to create a professional, organized file system that enhances your website's value and user experience.

### 🚀 Automatic File Organization
* **Smart Index Creation** - Automatically generates a comprehensive, categorized download index that updates in real-time
* **Flexible Display Options** - Choose between list view and tiles view for your downloads index
* **Scalable Architecture** - Perfect for growing sites with unlimited downloads in the free version
* **Individual Download Pages** - Each file gets its own dedicated page for maximum SEO impact

### 🎨 Interactive User Experience
* **Download Counter System** - Track file popularity with built-in download counting
* **User Rating System** - Let users rate on downloads to improve content quality
* **Built-in Search Engine** - Help users find files quickly with internal search and filtering
* **Support Forum Integration** - Built-in commenting system for each download to build community
* **Advanced File Sharing** - Enable seamless **file sharing** between users with built-in collaboration tools

### ⚙️ Advanced Control & Customization
* **User Role Management** - Define which user roles can upload, view, and download files
* **File Extension Control** - Administrators can define supported file types for security
* **Frontend Label Editing** - Customize all user-facing text and labels to match your brand
* **Responsive Design** - Mobile-friendly interface that works perfectly on all devices

## Pro Version Features – Take Your Download Manager Plugin to the Next Level

Ready to scale your file management to enterprise-level? The Pro version removes all limitations and adds powerful features that make managing large file collections effortless while maintaining lightning-fast performance.

### 🚀 Unlimited Scale & Performance
* **Multiple User File Upload Options** - Upload multiple files to each download page with individual titles
* **Advanced File Management** - Automatic zip creation or separate file downloads based on your needs
* **Enterprise Performance** - Optimized algorithms and caching systems ensure fast performance

### 🔧 Advanced Content Management
* **MicroPayments System** - Grant or charge virtual currency based on your use case
* **User Groups Permissions** - Set access control based on user groups with global and per-download settings
* **Social Media Registration** - Integrate with Facebook and LinkedIn for enhanced user onboarding
* **Extended Notifications** - Custom email notifications for **user file upload**, approvals, and user activities

### 🎨 Professional Customization
* **Advanced Access Control** - Define access restrictions for each download with role-based permissions
* **Password Protection** - Secure sensitive files with password protection
* **File Preview Options** - External viewer support for PDF, DOC, and XLS files
* **Related Downloads** - Show related files to increase user engagement and internal linking

### 🌐 Enterprise Features
* **Multisite Compatibility** - Manage downloads across multiple WordPress sites from a single installation
* **WooCommerce and EDD Integration** - Sell downloads with full ecommerce functionality
* **Advanced Statistics** - Detailed reports and download analytics including user tracking
* **FTP Storage Support** - Choose FTP storage instead of local website storage for scalability

## Add-Ons & Extensions – Extend Your Download Manager Plugin Functionality

> * [CM Secure Client Zone Add-on](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/client-download-zone-wordpress)
> * [CM Download Manager Payments Add-on](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/download-manager-payment-addon-wordpress-creativeminds/)
> * [CM Download Manager Visual Widgets Add-on](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/purchase-cm-download-manager-widgets-add-on-for-wordpress/)
> * [CM Download Manager Anonymous Posting Add-on](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/cm-downloads-anonymous-posting/)
> * [CM Download Manager User Registration Add-on](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/cm-user-registration-for-downloads-manager-addon-for-wordpress-by-creativeminds/)
> * [CM Download Manager PeepSo Integration Add-on](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/cm-downlaod-manager-peepso-integration-addon-wordpress/)
> * [CM Download Manager BBPress Integration Add-on](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/bbpress-wordpress-addon-for-download-manager-by-creativeminds/)
> * [CM MicroPayments Plugin](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/micropayments/)
> * [CM Video Courses Plugin](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/purchase-cm-video-lessons-manager-plugin-for-wordpress/)

## Real Use Cases of the Download Manager Plugin

Transform your WordPress site into a powerful file management platform that serves multiple business needs:

### 🏢 Business & Corporate
* **Document Libraries** - Create organized repositories for company policies, procedures, and resources using **documents management plugin**
* **Client Portals** - Share files securely with clients through role-based access control
* **Team Collaboration** - Enable team members to upload and share project files with built-in organization
* **Enterprise File Sharing** - Streamline **file sharing** workflows across departments with advanced collaboration features

### 🎵 Media & Entertainment
* **Music Directories** - Manage MP3 and audio files with preview capabilities
* **Video Collections** - Organize video content with preview options before download
* **Digital Asset Management** - Create professional media libraries for photographers and designers

### 🛒 Ecommerce & Sales
* **Digital Product Sales** - Sell downloads with WooCommerce and EDD integration and payment processing
* **Software Distribution** - Create plugin directories similar to WordPress.org with download tracking
* **Resource Marketplaces** - Build platforms for selling digital resources and templates

### 📚 Education & Training
* **Course Material Distribution** - Share educational content with students through organized downloads
* **Resource Libraries** - Create comprehensive resource collections for training and development
* **Student Submissions** - Allow students to upload assignments with proper organization

## Stay Connected with CreativeMinds

[Blog](https://www.cminds.com/category/wordpress/) | [Twitter](http://twitter.com/cmplugins) | [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/creativeminds) | [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/cmindschannel) | [Pinterest](http://www.pinterest.com/cmplugins/) | [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/cmplugins/)

## Other Powerful WordPress Plugins by CreativeMinds

List of all [WordPress Plugins](https://www.cminds.com) by CreativeMinds

* [CM Tooltip Glossary](https://glossaryplugin.com/) - Easily creates a Glossary, Encyclopaedia or Dictionary of your website's terms and shows them as a tooltip in posts and pages when hovering. With many more powerful features.
* [CM Answers Plugin](https://www.answersplugin.com/) - A fully-featured WordPress Questions & Answers Plugin that allows you to build multiple discussion forum systems Just like StackOverflow, Yahoo Answers and Quora, Now with MicroPayments and Anonymous posting support!
* [CM MicroPayments](http://micropaymentplugin.com/) - Adds the in-site support for your own "virtual currency". The purpose of this plugin is to allow in-site transactions without the necessity of processing the external payments each time (quicker & easier). Developers can use it as a platform to integrate with their own plugins.
* [CM Restrict Content](http://restrictcontent.com/) - A full-featured, powerful membership solution and content restriction plugin for WordPress. Support access by role to content on your site.
* [CM OnBoarding](https://onboardingplugin.com/) - Superb Guidance tool which improves the online experience and the user satisfaction.

== Installation ==

> [Detailed User Guide](https://creativeminds.helpscoutdocs.com/category/8-download-manager-cmdm)

1. Upload the plugin folder to the `/wp-content/plugins/` directory
2. Activate the WordPress download manager plugin through the 'Plugins' menu in WordPress
3. Manage your CM Download from Left Side Admin Menu
4. All downloads are located on `/cmdownloads/`
5. User dashboard is located on `/cmdownload/dashboard/`
6. Before adding first download please define download categories

Note: You must have a call to wp_head() in your template in order for the JS plugin files to work properly. If your theme does not support this you will need to link to these files manually in your theme (not recommended).

## 🏆 Why Choose CM Download Manager Plugin Over Other Solutions?

### Unmatched Experience & Reliability
* **10+ Years of Development** - We've been perfecting this **download manager plugin** since 2015, making it one of the most mature and reliable file management solutions available
* **Proven Track Record** - Trusted by businesses worldwide, from small teams to enterprise-level organizations
* **Continuous Innovation** - Regular updates with new features, security improvements, and performance optimizations

### Superior Technical Architecture
* **WordPress Native Integration** - Built specifically for WordPress with deep integration into the core system
* **Performance Optimized** - Advanced caching and file management algorithms ensure fast performance
* **Mobile-First Design** - Responsive interfaces that work perfectly on all devices
* **SEO-First Approach** - Every feature is designed to improve your search engine rankings

### Comprehensive Feature Set
* **No Feature Limitations** - Unlike competitors who charge extra for basic functionality, we provide comprehensive tools in every version
* **Professional Support** - Expert support team that understands both WordPress and file management
* **Extensive Customization** - Multiple configuration options for perfect integration with your site
* **Future-Proof Technology** - Regular updates keep you ahead of the competition
* **Modular Ecosystem** - Unlike other **download manager plugin** solutions, CM Download Manager offers a modular ecosystem of add-ons, giving you flexibility to extend functionality as your needs grow

### Value for Investment
* **Free Version Power** - Our free version includes features that competitors charge for
* **Scalable Pricing** - Choose the edition that matches your current needs, upgrade as you grow
* **ROI Focused** - Every feature is designed to improve file organization, user experience, and business efficiency

== Frequently Asked Questions ==

> [More FAQ's](https://www.cminds.com/wordpress-plugins-library/downloadsmanager/#faq/)

> [Detailed User Guide](https://creativeminds.helpscoutdocs.com/category/8-download-manager-cmdm)

### 🚀 Getting Started & Basic Setup

= How do I install CM Download Manager Plugin in WordPress? =

Simply upload the plugin folder to your `/wp-content/plugins/` directory, activate it through the WordPress admin panel, and start managing your downloads from the left sidebar menu.

= Do I need to manually create download categories? =

Yes, it's recommended to define download categories before adding your first download. This helps organize your files and provides better user navigation.

= Where are my downloads displayed on my website? =

All downloads are automatically displayed on `/cmdownloads/` and users can access their personal dashboard at `/cmdownload/dashboard/`.

### 🔒 Security & Access Control

= Can I protect downloads with passwords or user roles? =

The free plugin version includes comprehensive access control. You can define which user roles can upload, view, and download files. Setting password protection is available in Pro edition only.

= How do I control who can access specific downloads? =

You can set global permissions for user roles and also allow users to customize access settings for individual downloads. This gives you both broad and granular control over your content.

= Is it compatible with Multisite and page builders like Elementor or Divi? =

Yes! The plugin is fully compatible with WordPress Multisite and popular page builders including Elementor, Divi, and other major builders.

### 🎨 Customization & Styling

= How can I customize the look & feel of the plugin? =

The free version of CM Download Manager includes several basic options to adjust the plugin's appearance. For more advanced customization, including the ability to fully override templates and gain complete design control, you can upgrade to the Pro version.

= Can I use a different URL structure instead of /cmdownloads? =

Yes. In the free version, you can create custom pages for your downloads, which lets you use an alternative structure instead of the default `/cmdownloads`. In the Pro version, you can also customize the permalink structure itself, aligning it with your SEO and branding needs.

= How does this plugin help organize files in WordPress? =

The plugin creates a professional, categorized file directory that automatically organizes your downloads with search functionality, user dashboards, and built-in support forums. It transforms scattered files into a structured, professional system.

### 💰 Pricing & Features

= What's the difference between the free and Premium versions? =

The free version includes essential file management, user roles, basic shortcodes, and download tracking. The Premium version adds payment integration, advanced access control, file previews, detailed statistics, and many more enterprise features.

= Do I need to renew the license for the Premium version every year? =

Premium licenses include one year of updates and support. The plugin will keep working even if you don't renew, but you won't receive future updates or access to support until the license is renewed.

= Can I upgrade from the free version to Premium without losing data? =

Absolutely. All downloads, categories, and settings from the free version remain intact when you upgrade to Premium. You simply unlock additional features without having to start over.

== Screenshots ==

1. WordPress Download Manager – General Settings
2. Download Index Page – Settings Panel
3. Download Page – Settings & Styling
4. Upload Page – User Submission Settings
5. Access & Moderation – File Permissions
6. Download Notifications – Email Settings
7. Labels Settings – User Interface Text
8. Admin – Manage Downloads
9. Admin – Manage Download Categories
10. Downloads Index Page – Categories View
11. User Dashboard – Downloads Overview
12. Download Page – File Details & Support
13. Upload Form – Add New Download
14. Setup Wizard – Quick Configuration
15. Setup Wizard – Example Step

== Changelog ==

= 3.1.0 =
* Compatible with WordPress 6.9.4

= 3.0.9 =
* Compatible with WordPress 6.9.3 and greater

= 3.0.8 =
Release Date: 12 Jun 2025
* Added restrictions for deactivation (admin only)

= 3.0.7 =
Release Date: 15 May 2025
* Updated pricing

= 3.0.6 =
* Improved CSS

= 3.0.5 =
* Added "Related Plugins" page

= 3.0.4 =
* Styles improvements

= 3.0.3 =
Release Date: 14 Mar 2025
* Updated pricing

= 3.0.2 =
Release Date: 13 Mar 2025
* Fixed vulnerability issue

= 3.0.1 =
Release Date: 12 Mar 2025
* Fixed vulnerability issue in package

= 2.9.7 =
* Added support for the featured image thumbnail for download
* Added option to define max width of the Download Manager content area
* Implemented Wizard Setup

= 2.9.6 =
Release Date: 20 Jan 2025
* Resolved unauthentic arbitrary file deletion issue

= 2.9.5 =
Release Date: 08 Jan 2025
* Fixed vulnerability issue

= 2.9.4 =
Release Date: 19 Nov 2024
* Fixed security (medium) issue

= 2.9.3 =
Release Date: 9 Oct 2024
* Fixed security issues

= 2.9.2 =
Release Date: 18 May 2024
* Fixed security issues

= 2.9.1 =
Release Date: 29th February 2024
* Fixed problem with edit method

= 2.9.0 =
Release Date: 6th February 2024
* Improve Security stability

= 2.8.11 =
Release Date: 21st December 2023
* Update package info

= 2.8.11 =
Release Date: 6th Aug 2023
* Fixed problem with site health

= 2.8.10 =
Release Date: 21st Mar 2023
* Update package info

= 2.8.9 =
Release Date: 27th Feb 2023
* Added function for automatically detects and fixes the 404 issues after permalink changes

= 2.8.8 =
Release Date: 10th Nov 2022
* Update support links

= 2.8.6 =
Release Date: 6th Sep 2022
* Security fix

= 2.8.5 =
Release Date: 1st Sep 2022
* Security fix

= 2.8.4 =
Release Date: 25th August 2022
* Change in documentation link

= 2.6.3 =
Release Date: 5th Oct 2018
* Fixed installation bug

= 2.6.0 =
Release Date: 23rd May 2018
* Add GDPR support

= 2.5.17 =
Release Date: 5th April 2018
* Fixed session_start() PHP warning
* Added Italian translation po/mo files.

= Earlier versions =
For the changelog of earlier versions, please refer to [the changelog on cminds.com](https://www.cminds.com/cm-download-manager-free-version-changelog/)