How to Download Excel Files Generated Server-Side via AJAX in MVC?

Generating and Downloading Excel Files in MVC using AJAX

Directly downloading an Excel file via an AJAX call in MVC isn't possible. Instead, use AJAX to send data to the server, which then generates the Excel file.

Step 1: Server-Side Excel File Creation

Utilize libraries like EPPlus or NPOI to create the Excel file on the server using the data received from the AJAX request.

Step 2: Returning the File Information to the Client

After file generation, return the file's path or name to the AJAX call's success function.

Step 3: Triggering the Download in JavaScript

In the JavaScript success callback, redirect the browser to a URL that serves the file, initiating the download.

AJAX Example

<code class="language-javascript">$.ajax({
    type: 'POST',
    url: '/Reports/ExportMyData',
    data: JSON.stringify({ dataprop1: "test", dataprop2: "test2" }),
    contentType: 'application/json; charset=utf-8',
    dataType: 'json',
    success: function(returnValue) {
        window.location = '/Reports/Download?file=' + returnValue;
    }
});</code>

Controller Action (File Download)

<code class="language-csharp">[HttpGet]
public virtual ActionResult Download(string file)
{
    string fullPath = Path.Combine(Server.MapPath("~/MyFiles"), file);
    return File(fullPath, "application/vnd.ms-excel", file);
}</code>

This method ensures a smooth Excel file download triggered by an AJAX request without interfering with the client-side form's functionality.

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