[HttpPost] public JsonResult GenerateExcel(MyReportModel model) { // Generate file, store in TempData, return FileGuid } [HttpGet] public FileResult Download(string fileGuid, string fileName) { // Retrieve from TempData, return File(data, "content-type", filename) } Use code with caution.
Downloading an Excel file using jQuery AJAX in ASP.NET MVC requires a two-step approach or a specialized binary handling method. This is because traditional AJAX calls are designed to process text-based data (JSON or HTML) and cannot directly trigger the browser's "Save As" dialogue for binary files. Primary Implementation Strategies 1. The Two-Step Approach (Recommended)
On a successful AJAX response, use window.location.href to call a separate GET action that serves the stored file. Controller Example: download excel file using jquery ajax in asp.net mvc
This is the most reliable method for complex reports where you need to send parameters via AJAX, show a loading spinner, and then download the file.
For a single request, set xhrFields to responseType: 'blob' in the AJAX call, and use window.URL.createObjectURL to create a download link. Alternative approach discussed by developers like Saurabh Misra Download Excel file via AJAX MVC - Stack Overflow Primary Implementation Strategies 1
Code logic adapted from common implementations such as Stack Overflow answers on MVC file downloads and Syncfusion Knowledge Base javascript
$.ajax({ // ... setup success: function (response) { window.location.href = "/Home/Download?fileGuid=" + response.FileGuid; } }); Use code with caution. 2. The Blob Approach (Direct AJAX) For a single request, set xhrFields to responseType:
The controller action receives data, generates the Excel file (using libraries like EPPlus or ClosedXML ), and stores it temporarily in TempData or a physical temp folder.