How can I stop downloading temporarily

UNIX for Advanced & Expert Users
1

I would like to stop the ability for any downloads to occur. I would only need that for about 3 weeks.

I use Firefox and Ubuntu Mate 24.04.

I realize that updates require downloads.

I did a search for that ability but could not find anything.

Is it possible?

2

Why?
What's your goal?
You can disable automatic firefox updates:

3

This has nothing to do with updates.

My goal is to do no downloads of files for a temporary amount of time.

4

Then don't do it!

5

In Linux, the immutable flag is a powerful feature to prevent files from being modified, renamed, or deleted—even by root. This is particularly useful for ensuring files remain unchanged for a temporary or indefinite period.

Here’s how you can use it:

Using the Immutable Flag in Linux

Set the Immutable Flag:

• Use the chattr (change attributes) command to set the immutable flag.

• Example:

sudo chattr +i /path/to/your/file

• This makes the file immutable. It cannot be edited, renamed, or deleted until the flag is removed.

Check the File’s Attributes:

• Use the lsattr (list attributes) command to verify the file’s attributes.

• Example:

lsattr /path/to/your/file

• You’ll see an i in the output indicating the immutable flag is set.

Remove the Immutable Flag:

• If you need to modify or delete the file later, remove the immutable flag:

sudo chattr -i /path/to/your/file

Key Considerations

• System-Wide Impact:

• Even the root user cannot modify or delete a file with the immutable flag unless the flag is first removed. This is a strong safeguard.

• Directories:

• You can also set the immutable flag on directories, which prevents creating, renaming, or deleting files within that directory.

• Example:

sudo chattr +i /path/to/your/directory

Temporary Use:

• To temporarily ensure files are not updated, set the immutable flag and then remove it when the protection is no longer needed.

Real-World Applications

• Preventing Accidental Modifications: Useful for critical configuration files, such as /etc/fstab or /boot/grub/grub.cfg.

• Protecting System Files: Ideal for securing files during audits or while troubleshooting.

• Data Integrity: Ensures specific files remain untouched by unintended processes or users.

This approach is straightforward and highly effective for achieving your goal of temporarily preventing file changes without needing to download or manage additional software; without knowing more details. this is my first recommendation.

1 Like
6

I have been posting here for many years.

I have a cognitive disorder. Some of the side effects of that condition include the following:

  1. Confusion
  2. Failure to complete a task
  3. Memory problems

I have no nefarious reasons for my request.

I have 15 Gb of data on my cell phone plan.

I have used 13 Gb so far for the month of December.

7

Ah ok.
You can disable the silent download:

  1. In Firefox click the "Hamburger Menu" (icon with 3 small vertical lines) at the top-right corner.
  2. Select the Settings menu item. The Settings tab will open.
  3. You are in the "General" panel.
  4. Scroll down to the "Downloads" section and enable the checkbox "Ask every time".
  5. Scroll further down to "Firefox Updates" and ensure that automatic updates are disabled.
  6. Close the Settings tab. Your new settings will be saved.
2 Likes
8

Questions:

  1. Is your main intent to avoid big transfers so to avoid reaching your cell account data limit?
  2. Do you need to continue browsing normally, and block only file downloads?
    1. Do you realize browsing is file downloading all the time, and want to avoid user explicit requests for downloads using the browser?
  3. Do you need to block any downloads from any process, or only from browsers?
9

My intent was to avoid downloading any furthur downloads for a short amount of time.

I only have 15 Gbytes of data on my cell phone plan.

I reached that and the following occured :

I could not use my browser.

I could make phone calls. I could send text messages as long they did not contain any pictures or internet links.

Today I made a payment on my account and can now do all of the above.

I am looking for the most economical way to get internet where I live.

10

Are you using this setup on your LAN, which accesses the internet via your phone as a hotspot?

If that's the case, I recommend getting a dedicated SIM card and a SIM-enabled router for your hotspot needs. Some models allow you to set download limits, which can help manage your data usage.

This solution is relatively inexpensive and lets you separate your mobile phone SIM from the hotspot SIM, making management easier.

I personally use a TP-Link router, which works reliably and is manageable through their Tether app. Note that I haven’t checked whether it supports throttling or limiting data transfers.

TP-Link 4G and 5G Router Options

https://www.tp-link.com/th/home-networking/5g-4g-router/

I use the TP-Link TL-MR6400, primarily as a backup connection for when the local fiber optic cable is down. It cost me slightly over $60 USD on sale. However, you should verify the specs to ensure the model you choose includes bandwidth and data-limiting features.

If the TP-Link routers don’t meet your bandwidth management needs, there are other SIM-enabled routers available that you might want to explore. The prices are very reasonable, for sure.

TP-Link Tether App

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tp-link-tether/id599496594

Google Search - 4G SIM router with bandwidth management

https://www.google.com/search?q=4G+SIM+router+with+bandwidth+management

See Also: Tether - Easy Network Management At Your Fingertips!

https://www.tp-link.com/tether/

Bonus Reply: How to use bandwidth control or Speed Limit on TP-Link Wi-Fi Routers?

https://www.tp-link.com/support/faq/1725/

Personal Note for @drew77

I personally favor straightforward solutions for straightforward problems. This option is both affordable and effective. In my view, SIM cards and data plans are reasonably priced, so @drew77, you could ease the burden on your primary mobile phone by using a separate SIM card for data along with a SIM-enabled router with bandwidth-management features.

11

If I understood correctly:

  1. You use your cell phone account to provide internet to your desktop
  2. You want your desktop to temporarily stop all internet transfers

I guess the shortest and easiest way is to temporarily disable the connection between your desktop and your cell phone. For example, if this connection is thru Wi-Fi, you can just disable Wi-Fi sharing in your phone, or the wireless interface in your desktop.

If you need more details, pls inform how is your setup for the desktop to access internet via your cell phone account.