How to Fix “Google Drive Download Limit Exceeded” (2026 Guide)

If you see the message:

“Download quota exceeded”
or
“Too many users have viewed or downloaded this file recently”

Don’t worry. This happens when a file shared via Google Drive has reached its daily download bandwidth limit.

Below is a step-by-step tutorial (with screenshot guidance) to fix it.

✅ Method 1 – Make a Copy to Your Own Google Drive (Most Effective)

This is the safest and most reliable method.

🖼 Step 1 – Open the Google Drive Link

1. Open the shared Google Drive link.

2. You will see a message saying:
   “Too many users have viewed or downloaded this file recently.”

3. Do NOT close the page.

🖼 Step 2 – Add the File to Your Drive

1. Make sure you are logged into your Google account.

2. Click the Add shortcut to Drive icon.

3. Choose a folder (or leave it in My Drive).

4. Click Add Shortcut.

🖼 Step 3 – Make a Copy of the File

1. Go to My Drive.

2. Find the shortcut you just added.

3. Right-click the file.

4. Click Make a copy.

5. Wait until the copied file appears.

✔ The copied file is now independent from the original download quota.

🖼 Step 4 – Download the Copied File

1. Right-click the copied file.

2. Click Download.

3. The file should now download normally.

✅ Alternative Method – Download via Folder (ZIP Trick)

If “Make a copy” is disabled:

1. Create a new folder in Google Drive.

2. Move the file shortcut into that folder.

3. Right-click the folder.

4. Select Download.

5. Google will compress it into a ZIP file and download it.

Sometimes this bypasses the single-file restriction.

🔄 Last Option – Wait 24 Hours

If none of the methods work, the quota usually resets within 24 hours.

⚠ Important Notes

• These methods do not hack Google Drive.

• They only work if the file owner allows copying.

• Always download content legally and respect copyright.

• Avoid suspicious third-party “bypass” websites.