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How to Resume a Microsoft eDiscovery Export Download After Interruption
Question details
The user wants to know if a large Microsoft eDiscovery export download can be resumed from where it left off after a system update or unexpected interruption.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 eDiscovery
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Downloading large compliance files using the proprietary Microsoft eDiscovery Export Tool.
- Observed behavior
- The eDiscovery Export Tool restarts the download from the beginning instead of resuming the partially completed file after the process is interrupted.
Ensure your computer's power settings are configured to prevent sleeping during large downloads, and verify that you have a stable, wired internet connection before initiating the export.
Verify Temporary Files and Restart the Export Job
Since the proprietary eDiscovery Export Tool typically does not support resuming, you must verify the existing files and restart the download using your export key.
The Microsoft eDiscovery Export Tool does not behave like a standard web browser download. It generally lacks the capability to resume a partially completed package if the connection drops or the system reboots.
Navigate to the designated download directory on your local drive to check if the original export package or temporary download files (.PST or .CSV) are still present.
Check the size and status of the downloaded files. If they are incomplete, corrupted, or missing data due to the interruption, they cannot be reliably resumed.
Return to the Microsoft 365 Compliance Center, copy your export key, open the eDiscovery Export Tool, and paste the key to start a fresh download process.
Contact Your Microsoft 365 Administrator
Reach out to your IT admin for tenant-specific recovery options or to adjust the export sizes to prevent future failures.
Manage Your Exported Documents Easily with WPS Office
While WPS Office does not run Microsoft eDiscovery exports, it is an excellent, lightweight alternative for viewing and managing the CSV logs, summaries, and exported documents once your download is successfully completed. Enjoy a familiar interface and seamless compatibility with Microsoft Office formats without the high subscription costs.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your computer.
- 2. Open your export logs: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and navigate to your completed eDiscovery export folder.
- 3. Review the CSV files: Open the exported CSV summary files in WPS Spreadsheets to easily sort, filter, and review your compliance data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my eDiscovery export restart from the beginning?
The Microsoft eDiscovery Export Tool uses proprietary technology that generally lacks a pause-and-resume feature. If your network connection drops or a system update interrupts the process, the tool usually requires starting the download completely over.
How can I prevent interruptions during large eDiscovery downloads?
To minimize interruptions, connect to a stable wired network, disable automatic sleep or hibernation settings on your computer, and temporarily pause automatic system updates while the tool is running.
Can I use a standard web browser to download eDiscovery results?
No, Microsoft requires the use of its proprietary eDiscovery Export Tool to download export results safely and securely, rather than using standard web browsers like Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.
Is there a way to make eDiscovery exports smaller to avoid failure?
Yes, Microsoft 365 administrators can refine the search criteria to reduce the data volume or choose to export the results in smaller batches, which significantly lowers the risk of interruption during the download.
