javascript download file internet explorer

Saving Files Locally using JavaScript and msSaveBlob: A Solution for Cross-Browser Compatibility

When it comes to saving files locally on the client-side, developers often face challenges due to browser-specific limitations. In this article, we will explore a solution that utilizes the FileSaver.js library to overcome these limitations and provide cross-browser compatibility.

As mentioned earlier, the FileSaver.js library is designed to work with various browsers, including Firefox, Chrome, Chrome for Android, IE 10+, Opera, and Safari. This means you can easily integrate it into your web application without worrying about browser-specific issues.

To use FileSaver.js, simply include the library in your HTML file and then utilize its methods to save generated files on the client-side. For instance, if you need to save a Blob or File object, you can use the msSaveBlob method to send headers with specific values:

Content-Length: 'value'

Content-Disposition: attachment; filename='filename'

By using this approach, you can ensure that your file is downloaded correctly and saved locally on the client-side.

However, if you want to accomplish the same behavior in Internet Explorer (IE) as well, you'll face a limitation. The download attribute is not supported in IE and iOS Safari, which means you'll need an alternative solution. Fortunately, FileSaver.js provides a workaround for this issue by utilizing the msSaveBlob method.

In addition to using FileSaver.js, you can also implement your own solution by leveraging the XMLHttpRequest object in JavaScript. By setting the responseType property to 'blob' and then using the Blob object's URL.createObjectURL method, you can create a temporary URL that allows users to download the file locally.

Here is an example of how you might use this approach:

```

xhr.open('GET', 'path/to/file', true);

xhr.responseType = 'blob';

xhr.onload = function() {

if (this.status === 200) {

var blob = this.response;

var url = window.URL.createObjectURL(blob);

var a = document.createElement('a');

a.href = url;

a.download = 'file_name.txt';

a.click();

}

};

xhr.send();

```

In conclusion, saving files locally using JavaScript and msSaveBlob can be achieved by utilizing FileSaver.js or implementing your own solution. By doing so, you can ensure cross-browser compatibility and provide users with a seamless experience when downloading files from your web application.

So, if you're struggling to find a solution for saving files locally across different browsers, give FileSaver.js a try. Its ease of use and flexibility make it an excellent choice for developers looking to overcome browser-specific limitations.

Javascript download file internet explorer