buildElementoradmin_panel_settingspermissionsextensionElementorsystem_updateUpdatelinkconnectionapiapilabelCommonwarningModerate

Elementor: Failed to update: Download failed

The update process stops when WordPress tries to fetch the Elementor package. WordPress receives an error response instead of a zip file. The result is a red error badge on the Plugins screen and no version change.

Typical triggers include an inactive or expired Elementor Pro license, a blocked outbound HTTPS request, or insufficient file‑system permissions. When the license is not active the Elementor API rejects the request as unauthorized. When the server blocks external connections the request never reaches the Elementor CDN. When WordPress cannot write to the plugins folder the download aborts.

These conditions also appear in the Elementor dashboard as a red notice about an inactive license. Site Health may report that external HTTP requests are blocked. The error prevents security patches and new features from being applied.

Symptoms

[dashicons-warning]
Error message in Plugins screen
Shows “Elementor: Failed to update: Download failed” with a red badge.
[dashicons-admin-plugins]
Update button disabled
Button stays inactive after the attempt.
[dashicons-info]
Red notice in Elementor dashboard
Indicates the license is not active.

Common Causes

Inactive or expired Pro license
API rejects the download request as unauthorized.
Outbound HTTP blocked
Firewall, ModSecurity or hosting policy prevents connections to Elementor’s CDN.
File‑system permission issue
WordPress is unable to write to wp‑content/plugins or the temporary upload directory.
Version mismatch
Pro version requires a newer free Elementor core or newer WordPress core.
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