If the file is stored in a repository or if you prefer a direct HTTP download without using Maven coordinates, you can use a custom task or a plugin. Using the de.undercouch.download Plugin
For a "no-plugin" approach, you can leverage Gradle's built-in Ant support: gradle download file from nexus
By default, Gradle caches downloaded files to speed up builds. If you need to force a re-download (for example, if a Snapshot has changed but the version number is the same), use the --refresh-dependencies flag in your terminal: ./gradlew build --refresh-dependencies Use code with caution. Summary Comparison Table Standard JAR/WAR dependencies Built-in, handles transitive dependencies Complex for non-standard files Copy Task Drivers, binaries, or assets Cleanest "Gradle-way" for specific files Requires Maven coordinates Download Plugin Raw files, direct URLs Highly flexible, handles large files well Requires external plugin Ant Get Quick, one-off downloads No external plugins required Less "idiomatic" Gradle code If the file is stored in a repository
This is the most popular community plugin for simple file downloads. direct URLs Highly flexible
You can achieve this by creating a custom and a Copy task :