SynergyMX.com – Articles, News and Tips

Super Simple Guide (SSG) – BitTorrent

Posted by VelkyMX on 5/24/2005 9:08:06 AM.

BitTorrent is a distributed file download system. It takes large files,
breaks them apart, and then uploads small pieces why you download them.
It takes the load off of the initial server and distributes it to each
of the downloading clients. What
this means is, while you are downloading that new demo for your
favorite game, BitTorrent is uploading the small parts of the file you
have already downloaded to other people downloading, just like you. Why
is this great? With many people using DSL or fast connections to the
internet, a majority of us are just downloading content onto our
computers. Whether they are web pages, photos or email, we rarely
upload onto the net. In the past, the way to transfer files was either
through a web page (HTTP) or through a FTP server. BitTorrent replaces
both. By utilizing your own bandwidth to help shoulder the load of the
download, people who are downloading have a more reliable and larger
amount of bandwidth to download from.Um… badwidewho? Think of
bandwidth as a pipe from the internet or network onto your computer.
Lets break it down as if you were using that pipe to water your lawn.
Dial-up, like AOL, would have a very small pipe, like a straw. It can
be used, but would take forever to do the whole thing. DSL would have a
larger pipe, like a garden hose, again more efficient, but still
limited. BitTorrent would be like an entire sprinkler system, with each
sprinkler head being a different person, each with its own small supply
of water, helping everyone enjoy the lawn, but in the most efficient
way possible.How can you get started enjoying this excellent
service? First you will need a BitTorrent client. We recommend Azureus.
It is a free – open source BitTorrent client.
then just keep your eyes open for the BitTorrent downloads, called
Torrents. Just click on the Torrent and Azureus will do the rest! Not
everyone has one, but many of the game developers, application writers
and file sharers will offer these Torrents.