Internet Download Manager (IDM)

Internet Download Manager, commonly called IDM, is a proprietary Windows application for managing internet file transfers. Tonec describes it as a download accelerator that can resume interrupted transfers, organize files, schedule queues, and integrate with supported browsers.

The software supports Windows 7, Windows 8 and 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11. It is not offered as a native macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS application. Browser extensions provide the main connection between IDM and web browsers.

IDM divides downloads into dynamically managed segments and reuses available connections during transfers. It can repair or resume downloads interrupted by connection loss, system shutdowns, or power failures.

Additional functions include browser click monitoring, clipboard URL monitoring, right-click download commands, download categories, multiple queues, scheduled transfers, queue synchronization, customizable columns, skins, themes, and media download panels on supported web pages.

IDM also supports command-line parameters. Users can start downloads, select output paths and filenames, add tasks to queues, run silent operations, start scheduled queues, and exit after completion.

IDM provides a 30-day trial without requiring an email address or credit card. After the trial, users can choose a one-year license or a lifetime license.

The official purchase page currently displayed £8.70 for a one-year license for one PC and £17.95 for a lifetime license for one PC. Volume pricing displayed £7.25 per PC for annual licenses and £14.50 per PC for lifetime licenses when purchasing two or more PCs. Prices can vary by currency, promotion, or checkout location.

The lifetime license does not expire, but purchases made after April 2016 include three years of guaranteed free updates. Licenses are assigned per computer and require separate licenses for simultaneous use on multiple computers.

Pros

• Supports download resumption after common interruptions.
• Includes scheduling, queues, categories, and browser integration.
• Offers both command-line controls and a graphical interface.
• Provides a 30-day trial and a lifetime purchase option.
• Supports major Windows browser environments.

Cons

• Native support is limited to Windows operating systems.
• Licenses are tied to individual computers.
• There is no verified public REST API or cloud synchronization service.
• Browser media capture depends on supported sites and working extensions.
• Public Trustpilot feedback is mixed, although the profile has a small review base and is unclaimed.

Free Download Manager is a cross-platform alternative with support for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. JDownloader is another desktop download manager with extensive link-processing and automation features.

Motrix and aria2 provide more technical alternatives for users who prefer open-source clients or command-line workflows. Xtreme Download Manager is another Windows-focused option with browser integration and media-download features.

Does IDM work on macOS?
IDM is documented for Windows and does not provide a native macOS application.

Is IDM free?
IDM offers a 30-day free trial. Continued use requires an annual or lifetime license.

Does IDM have an API?
No public web API was verified. IDM does provide documented command-line parameters for starting and controlling downloads.

Can one license be used on multiple computers?
No. The official license terms describe IDM as a per-computer license. A user can move a license after uninstalling it from the previous computer.

Which browsers integrate with IDM?
Official documentation lists Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Internet Explorer, Safari, and other compatible browsers. The integration module must remain installed and enabled.

How long does the trial last?
The official trial period lasts 30 days and does not require a credit card.