how to see your previously downloaded mods nexus mods

2 min read 15-04-2025

how to see your previously downloaded mods nexus mods

Finding your downloaded Nexus Mods can be surprisingly tricky if you haven't done it before. This guide will walk you through locating your mods on both Windows and macOS, regardless of your browser. We'll cover the basics and troubleshoot common issues.

Locating Your Nexus Mods Downloads: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your downloaded mods aren't magically integrated into your games. Nexus Mods downloads them to your computer's file system. The exact location depends on your operating system and browser settings.

Step 1: Check Your Default Downloads Folder

The simplest place to start is your computer's default downloads folder. This is where most browsers automatically save downloaded files.

Windows: Usually found at C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Downloads. Replace [YourUsername] with your actual username.
macOS: Typically located in your user folder at ~/Downloads.

Look for files with extensions like .zip, .7z, or .rar. These are the compressed files containing your mods.

Step 2: Check Your Browser's Download History

If you can't find your mods in the default downloads folder, check your browser's download history. This will show you exactly where each file was saved.

Chrome: Click the three vertical dots (More) in the top right corner, then select "Downloads".
Firefox: Click the three horizontal lines (Menu) in the top right corner, then select "Downloads".
Safari: Click the "History" menu and select "Downloads".
Edge: Click the three horizontal dots (More actions) in the top right corner, then select "Downloads".

Step 3: Nexus Mods Manager (NMM) or Vortex

If you use a mod manager like Nexus Mod Manager (NMM) or Vortex, your downloaded mods are managed within the software itself. These programs create their own dedicated folders to organize your mods.

NMM: Open NMM and look at the "Mods" tab. It will display a list of your installed mods and usually show the file path in its properties.
Vortex: Similar to NMM, Vortex displays your mods in its interface. Check the "Mods" section for your downloaded files and their locations. The exact location will be shown within the mod's properties.

Step 4: Searching Your Computer

If all else fails, use your operating system's search function to locate the files.

Windows: Press the Windows key, type the name of the mod, and press Enter.
macOS: Use Spotlight search (Command + Space) and type the mod's name.

This method is helpful if you remember part of the mod's name but aren't sure where it's saved.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

I can't find my downloads: Double-check your browser's download settings. Ensure that you haven't accidentally changed the default download location. Some browsers allow you to choose specific folders for downloads.
The downloaded files are corrupted: Try re-downloading the mod from Nexus Mods. Sometimes, downloads get interrupted or damaged during the process.
My mod manager isn't showing my mods: Make sure you've added your mod manager's download directory as a mod source. Consult your mod manager's documentation if you are unsure.

Where Nexus Mods Shouldn't Be

It's important to understand where your Nexus Mods shouldn't be located. These are common misconceptions:

Inside the game's installation folder: Never directly place mods into your game's folder. This can cause conflicts and even game crashes. Always use a mod manager or a dedicated mods folder.
In your Documents folder: While some games might store save data in your Documents, downloaded mods typically reside in your Downloads folder or a mod manager's designated location.

By following these steps, you should be able to locate your downloaded Nexus Mods quickly and easily. Remember to use a mod manager for a more organized and efficient modding experience. Happy modding!