Downloads
How to download Instagram videos and photos on PC or Mac
Save public Instagram Reels, videos and photos on Windows, macOS or Linux using a browser. Find files, use Save As and handle carousel downloads.
Published · Updated · 8 min read
Quick answer
On a PC or Mac, open the specific public Instagram post, copy its URL, paste it into IGDownPro and download the MP4 or JPG. Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari normally place the file in Downloads unless you chose another location. If media opens in a tab, use Save video/image as.
Download from Instagram in a desktop browser
Open the individual post
At instagram.com, click the specific Reel, video, photo or carousel. Confirm the browser address identifies the post rather than only the profile.
Copy the full URL
Copy the browser address or use the post options menu and choose Copy link. Keep the complete post identifier.
Paste into IGDownPro
Open the relevant tool, paste the link and run the resolver. No desktop program or browser extension is required.
Choose the result
Review the preview and click Download below the MP4 or JPG. Carousel posts show each available slide separately.
Find the file
Open the browser's recent Downloads control or the operating system Downloads folder. Move the file into your project folder after confirming it opens.
Where the file is saved
Browser settings can ask where to save every file or silently use a chosen folder. The browser's Downloads history is the most reliable starting point because it can reveal the current filename and offer Show in folder.
| System/browser | Where to look | Useful control |
|---|---|---|
| Windows with Chrome/Edge | Your user Downloads folder | Browser Downloads tray or Ctrl+J |
| macOS with Safari | Downloads unless Safari settings specify another location | Safari Show Downloads button |
| macOS with Chrome | Your user Downloads folder | Chrome Downloads tray or Command+Shift+J/Downloads menu |
| Linux with Chrome/Firefox | Usually your home Downloads folder | Browser Downloads history |
If the Instagram video opens instead of downloading
Some browsers play an MP4 in a new tab because they know how to display the format. That does not mean the file is unavailable. Right-click or Control-click the video and choose Save video as when the browser offers it, then select a destination.
For a JPG preview, right-click and choose Save image as. Use the result's explicit Download control first so you receive the resolved media rather than accidentally saving the whole webpage or a small preview thumbnail.
Downloading carousels on a computer
A carousel can contain photos, videos or both. IGDownPro lists the available slides in creator order and offers individual buttons plus Download all. Desktop browsers may ask whether the site can download multiple related files.
Approve that permission only for the trusted page and only when you initiated a carousel download. If the prompt is unavailable or your work device blocks it, save each slide individually and keep the numbering/order in your folder.
Organize downloads without losing context
- Keep the original Instagram URL in a project note or citation file.
- Rename files descriptively without removing .mp4 or .jpg.
- Preserve creator name, permission and intended use alongside the file.
- Use numbered filenames for carousel slides so their order remains clear.
- Delete duplicates and partial transfers after verifying the working copy.
- Back up your own content through Instagram's account export rather than relying only on individually saved posts.
Desktop downloader security basics
A normal result is media—not a codec pack, EXE, DMG, browser extension or command-line installer. Apple and Google both advise caution around unexpected software downloads. Cancel anything unrelated to the MP4 or JPG you requested.
Do not enter Instagram credentials into a public downloader. Public posts can be resolved from their URLs; private content is not supported. Workplace browser policies can also block downloads, and those controls should not be bypassed without authorization.
Frequently asked questions
How do I download Instagram videos to my PC?
Open the public post, copy its URL, paste it into IGDownPro and click Download. Find the MP4 in your browser's Downloads tray or Windows Downloads folder.
How do I download Instagram photos on a Mac?
Copy the public photo post link, resolve it with the Photo Downloader and save the JPG. Safari normally uses Downloads unless its General settings specify another location.
Why does the MP4 open in a browser tab?
The browser can play MP4 files directly. Right-click or Control-click the video and choose Save video as, or return to the result and use its Download button.
Do I need a browser extension on PC or Mac?
No. A browser-based downloader only needs the supported public post URL. Avoid extensions that request broad access to Instagram pages or sessions.
Can I download all Instagram carousel slides on a computer?
Yes. Use Download all and approve the browser's related-file permission if prompted, or save each available slide individually.
Sources and fact-checking
Platform controls can change. This article was checked against the official sources below on August 2, 2026.
- Download a file on a computer— Google Chrome Help
- Download items using Safari on Mac— Apple Support
- Get a link to a photo or video on Instagram— Instagram Help Center