Normally, we will use a built-in download manager for installing Magento Extensions (add-ons) directly from their Magento Connect service. However, it may not always be available or be the best option because you want to test the extension first or you are installing it on a development site which does not have internet access. You should never really install extensions straight on to a live site.
This article is a collection of tools and instructions that allow you to download the magento extensions as zip files, either in their orginal format or in a zip file that is ready to FTP or copy and paste into your site. The tools are required because getting the extensions is normally a closed system through Mageno Connect so there is no direct access to the files otherwise.
- How To Install Magento Extensions – Magento Extension Installation Guide - This is an article on how to install extensions the normal way
- Download Magento extension directly (Mirage Design) - easy to follow instructions and tool
- Download Magento Extension (Freegento) - this tool does not seem to be updated anymore and does not created ready to paste zips
- Direct Download Magento Extension Without Pear - this tool works but does not support ready to paste zips