How private downloads and expiring links work
Understand why download links are temporary and how expiration settings protect your files.
Private download delivery is a balance: buyers need a link that works, and you need to avoid turning a paid file into a permanent public URL.
Zwely handles this with signed links, an expiration window, and a max download count. The settings are visible in the email preview so buyers are not surprised.
How download protection works
Files stay private
Uploaded product files are stored outside public browsing. Buyers receive signed links that authorize access without exposing the storage path or making the file generally discoverable.
Expiration reduces sharing risk
A link that works forever is easy to forward, leak, or reuse. Expiring links keep delivery convenient while limiting the usefulness of an old email link.
Max downloads adds a second guardrail
The default max downloads setting is 5. That gives legitimate buyers room for browser retries, device changes, and interrupted downloads without making unlimited sharing easy.
The email explains the limits
When you change expiration or max downloads under Account, then Emails, the preview text updates. That way buyers see the same rules you configured.
Choosing a good expiration window
Shorter windows are good for simple products and launches. Longer windows are friendlier for large archives, courses, or products buyers may need to download later.
Good to know
- Use a longer expiration window for large files, course materials, or products buyers may reasonably need to redownload later.