Prevent Direct Access Gold is a WordPress file-protection plugin managed through the Media Library. It supports ebooks, documents, pictures, audio, videos, and other media that should not be openly accessible through their original URLs.

Files and folders

Gold supports unlimited files and all file types. Protect files individually or in groups, protect new uploads automatically or on the fly, or use Folder Protection to cover every file in a selected private folder under the WordPress root or uploads directory.

Access rules and links

Restrict protected files to logged-in users or custom visitor roles, and set which users can view files in the Media Library. Create and tailor unlimited Private Download Links for selected files, so you can share downloads without exposing their standard file URLs. Links can expire after a specified number of days or clicks.

Referrer Links grant access to individual files or groups based on the referring location. IP-based restrictions are available for protected access. The WooCommerce Integration extension can restrict access to a WooCommerce order page by IP address.

File and content controls

• Encryption: Encrypt protected files to prevent unauthorized downloads from viewing them.
• URL management: Search content for unprotected file URLs and replace them with protected references.
• Search and directory access: Prevent search engines from indexing protected files and protect the WordPress uploads directory from user browsing.
• Image hotlink prevention: Stop other sites from linking directly to images.
• Content copying: Disable text selection and right-click on web pages as an option for reducing content copying.

Storage and website integrations

Amazon S3 Integration can synchronize or offload multiple files to Amazon S3, replace unprotected URLs in content, and set expiration times. The Amazon S3 and Wasabi Smart File Uploads Plugin can upload multiple files directly from a local computer to Amazon S3 or Wasabi.

Prevent Direct Access Gold integrates with WordPress Multisite Network and membership extensions. LearnDash integration can grant enrolled students access to course materials. These integrations support websites that distribute private downloads, member resources, or learning materials.

Installation and first use

Install and activate the plugin, then open the Media Library interface and choose files for protection. Choose the applicable access, link, folder, or integration settings. Use the available private URLs when sharing protected downloads. For cloud storage, membership, WooCommerce, or LearnDash workflows, configure the relevant integration after activation.