It happens with all of us. We have to go somewhere but want a file to be downloaded in that time itself. But, because there isn’t anyone back at home to start the download, you fail.

For those struck in this situation, automation is the key. We have posted about remotely shutting down a PC via an email or SMS, but downloading is a different matter.

Download Scheduler is a very simple extension for Firefox to allow you to schedule downloads to start at a later time. The usual use-case is for people who have a plan with their internet service provider for a limited amount of monthly usage but with the exception of an off-peak time. This extension can allow you to setup those files for the off peak time and enjoy some good sleep without worrying about exceeding your monthly usage.

It is very simple to use once installed:

1) Configure the time under the Tools -> Addons -> Download Scheduler -> Options
2) Right click a link a choose ‘Schedule Link As…’ rather than ‘Save Link As…’
3) Leave Firefox running until that time.