I am looking for a way to allow users to download a file from my site using ajax. The reason why i need to do this is because the files are quite big (50 megs normally). So
I don't really see how you can allow a user to download a file using ajax. There won't be any way to get the file to their filesystem from javascript. What's wrong with targeting the file into an iframe or a new window and letting users manage the download like they are used to using their browser?
I have decided to use the IFrame method is there is no other way that works seamlessly enough to make it worth the time.
Add a progress bar on your page and Use postback triggers for your updatepanel. It will solve the issue you are facing.