How to see what you are downloading

When i try to download a program say VLC......usually a window pops up and shows me what i am downloading and how fast, estimated time etc., but that window does not pop up anymore so i dont know how long my downloads are and i cant see them?😕

Does anyone know how i can fix this I would like to see what i am downloading etc. and if its finished or not without having to guess and go looking for it on the HD

thanks

thank you sir 😀