If you are using an iMac or Mac Mini, you can configure the computer to stay awake even if the display turns off. This is the most efficient way to download while saving screen energy.
Apple’s logic: Only our services run while you’re not looking. does mac continue download in sleep
If your Mac is connected to a power adapter, this mode periodically wakes the system to download specific system data: If you are using an iMac or Mac
When a Mac goes to sleep, the operating system cuts power to the networking hardware and spins down the hard drive to save energy. This effectively disconnects your internet connection, causing any active downloads to pause or fail. does mac continue download in sleep