Use FileStreamResult to stream data from sources like a database or external API. 3. Forcing the "Save As" Dialog
public ActionResult DownloadFile() { // Define the full path to your file string filePath = Server.MapPath("~/Files/Example.pdf"); // Provide the path, MIME type, and the desired download name return File(filePath, "application/pdf", "UserFriendlyName.pdf"); } Use code with caution. 2. Returning Different Data Types c# mvc download file in browser
The most common way to trigger a download is by using the File() helper method in your controller. This method accepts the file content (as a path, byte array, or stream), the MIME type, and the file name as shown in the browser. Use FileStreamResult to stream data from sources like