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Download Dilemma | Users Grapple with Hugging Face's Slow Servers

By

Kenji Yamamoto

Oct 10, 2025, 04:30 PM

2 minutes needed to read

A person using a computer to download a file from Hugging Face, looking focused and engaged

A growing number of users are facing issues when trying to download resources from Hugging Face. The topic has emerged prominently in user boards as frustration builds over sluggish server response times and general accessibility problems, significantly impacting those seeking valuable AI tools.

The Hurdles in Downloading

Reports indicate that recent attempts to download specific models, such as RealVisXL_V5.0, have turned into a frustrating experience for many. Users reported a spinning tab in Chrome, indicating a stalled process after logging in.

"Some users argue that the current system is inadequate," said one commenter. Another added, "The past few days, the servers have been having major issues."

Alternative Solutions Suggested

As users express their concerns, several alternatives have been recommended:

  • Mirrors: CivitAi and similar platforms are mentioned as viable substitutes for downloading.

  • Command-line tools: One user pointed out that the command huggingface_hub could help, although it has faced criticism for being deprecated.

  • Help Command: The command hf --help was also suggested for those needing guidance.

Community Sentiment

The overall sentiment appears mixed, with frustration dominating. While some are hopeful about new solutions, others are disheartened by ongoing difficulties. "Okay, thanks for the update," reflects a tone of reluctant acceptance.

"This is disappointing for many of us who depend on these tools!" - said one active participant.

Key Points to Consider

  • 🌐 Users face significant barriers while downloading from Hugging Face.

  • πŸ”„ Alternative platforms like CivitAi are being recommended.

  • βš™οΈ Command-line tools have mixed reviews, with some being labeled deprecated.

The outlook for download functionality needs immediate attention from Hugging Face to accommodate its users effectively. As the community waits for improvements, frustrations may continue to rise.

Future Troubles on the Horizon

There's a strong chance that unless Hugging Face addresses its server issues soon, frustration among people will reach a breaking point. Experts estimate that a significant number of those affected could turn to alternative platforms within the next month if improvements aren't seen. The ongoing conversation on forums suggests that even casual users are beginning to explore other options, making it crucial for Hugging Face to enhance their infrastructure. If they fail to do so, the likelihood of people redistributing their loyalty to competitor services will only increase.

Echoes from a Technological Past

This situation bears resemblance to the early days of online streaming services, where lags and buffering became a common complaint. Just as consumers once flocked to faster platforms when video quality suffered, a segment of people may soon grow weary of waiting for downloads and seek out better alternatives. It's a reminder that in the fast-paced world of technology, even the most essential resources can swiftly lose their appeal if not delivered efficiently.