# Downloads

> Let clients download your files, or keep links stream-only.

Source: https://docs.wavdrop.link/downloads

You decide whether your client can take files home or only stream them.

## Allow or prevent downloads

Downloads are a project setting, so they apply to every link in the project, song links included.

- New projects allow downloads, unless you turn on **Prevent downloads** while creating them.
- To change it later, open the project and switch **Prevent downloads** in **Project settings**.

With downloads allowed, your client sees a **Download** button for each song. With downloads prevented, the button is replaced by "Downloads are disabled".

> [!TIP]
> Doing paid work? Keep **Prevent downloads** on until the invoice is paid, then switch it off. Your client keeps the same link. See [Terms, revisions and payment](https://docs.wavdrop.link/terms-and-payment).

## What your client downloads

They get the file you uploaded, not a squashed copy.

## Download your own files

Open a song's menu and choose **Download original**. This works whatever the project's download setting is.

## Know when it happens

Downloads show up in your notifications, so you know when the files have left.

> [!NOTE]
> Preventing downloads removes the download button. Like any audio that plays in a browser, it can't stop someone from recording what they hear. For unreleased music, pair it with a [password or email access](https://docs.wavdrop.link/protect-links).