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Updated: April 13, 2025

.DLM File Extension

There is only one filetype that uses .DLM file extension and it is Akamai Download Manager File.

Akamai Download Manager File

File category: Miscellaneous Files
Developer: Akamai
Open with: Akamai Download Manager
Platforms: Windows, macOS

A DLM file is a partially downloaded file that's created temporarily by the Akamai Download Manager while downloading content from the internet. The .dlm extension indicates that the download is still in progress or has been interrupted. Once the download completes successfully, the system automatically renames the file to its proper extension (like .exe, .zip, .pdf, etc.).

The Akamai Download Manager technology was introduced in the early 2000s as part of Akamai's content delivery network (CDN) solutions, though the exact date isn't widely documented. It became more commonly encountered as internet download speeds increased and larger file downloads became more frequent.

DLM files serve several important purposes in the download process:

  • Temporary Storage: They act as containers for data while a download is in progress
  • Download Management: They allow the download manager to track progress and resume interrupted downloads
  • Download Integrity: They help maintain file integrity during the download process

The Akamai Download Manager is particularly useful for:

  • Large file downloads (software applications, media files, etc.)
  • Downloads in unstable network conditions
  • Downloads that might need to be paused and resumed

How to Open .DLM as Akamai Download Manager File

DLM files aren't meant to be opened directly while the download is in progress. However:

  1. Completed Downloads: Once a download finishes, the file should automatically be renamed with its proper extension, making it openable with its associated program.

  2. Manual Renaming: If the automatic renaming doesn't occur:

    • Wait until the download is 100% complete
    • Manually rename the file, changing the .dlm extension to the correct one (like .exe, .zip, .pdf)
    • Open with the appropriate application
  3. Incomplete Files: If a download was interrupted, the DLM file may be incomplete. In this case:

    • Resume the download using Akamai Download Manager if possible
    • If resuming isn't possible, you may need to restart the download

How to Convert an DLM File

DLM files don't need to be converted in the traditional sense, but rather they need to be properly completed and renamed:

  1. Automatic Completion: Allow the download to finish completely, after which the system should automatically rename the file with its proper extension.

  2. Manual Renaming: If the download has completed but the extension remains .dlm:

    • Right-click the file and select "Rename"
    • Change the .dlm extension to the appropriate file type
    • Confirm the change when prompted about changing the file extension
  3. Troubleshooting: If the file doesn't work after renaming:

    • The download may have been corrupted or incomplete
    • Try downloading the file again
    • Contact the source website if problems persist

Applications That Open DLM Files

Windows Apps for DLM Files:

macOS Apps for DLM Files:

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