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Alex Hedström

Plugin

Download Sentinel

Share a download link, not your file’s storage location.

What it does

Download Sentinel gives files a controlled route out of WordPress. Upload a file, copy its token link, and choose whether it needs a password, an expiry date, or a download limit. A focused Files screen and activity view keep sharing and reviewing downloads in one place.

Key features

  • Unique token links that keep the underlying storage path out of public links.
  • Protected storage with checks that direct browser access is denied.
  • Optional passwords, expiry dates, and maximum downloads per file.
  • File uploads and Media Library imports, with controls for the original attachment.
  • Download activity, filters, CSV export, and a dashboard widget.
  • Configurable pretty links, with a query-string fallback when needed.

Get started in three steps

  1. Install and activate Download Sentinel, then open Settings → DownloadSentinel.
  2. Check the protected-storage status and upload an allowed file on the Files tab; set any password, expiry, or download limit.
  3. Copy the file’s token link to your page and test it as a visitor before sharing it.

Frequently asked questions

Not by itself. Imports copy a file into protected storage. The original public attachment must be removed when it remains reachable, otherwise that original URL bypasses token locks.

Yes, but nginx needs a server-level deny rule for the protected folder. The plugin provides guidance and blocks new uploads or imports until its probe can verify protection.

No. The current plugin uses an allowlist for documents, images, audio, and video. Archives, executables, scripts, and other blocked formats are not accepted.

Not by default. Protected files and database tables are retained unless you enable Delete files on uninstall in the plugin settings.

Need a hand?

Ask a question or check existing topics in the plugin’s WordPress.org support forum.

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