Download Restriction

Download restriction is a security setting that prevents readers from saving or downloading the original PDF file behind a published flipbook or document. Readers can view and interact with the content in the browser, but the download button is disabled or hidden entirely. The source file remains on the server and is never transferred to the reader's device as a standalone file.

Many publishers need to share content without giving it away. Downloadable PDFs can be forwarded, edited, or redistributed without the publisher's knowledge. By restricting downloads, you maintain control over how your content is consumed, protect proprietary information, and can continue to track engagement through analytics since readers must return to your published link.

FlipLink's [Privacy & Access Control](/features/privacy-and-access-control) settings let you toggle download permissions on or off for each publication. When downloads are restricted, the PDF download option is removed from the viewer toolbar. Readers can still flip through pages, zoom in, and use all interactive features, but they cannot extract the original file. You can change this setting at any time without generating a new share link.

A training company shares a proprietary certification study guide as a flipbook with download restrictions enabled. Students can read the full guide online, but they cannot save the PDF locally or share the file with non-enrolled participants, preserving the value of the paid course material.