• BitTorrent is a peer-to-peer file-sharing protocol. It is used to distribute large files or blocks of files via the Internet. It is often used to distribute videos and MP3s, but is also used to distribute software, images and various other kinds of data. BitTorrent uses a system by which every recipient of a file uploads portions of the file they've already downloaded to newer recipients. The result is a reduced strain on the original provider in terms of bandwidth, but it also makes the process more efficient, providing multiple sources for a file instead of just one.

• Fast Facts

  1. Developer: BitTorrent Inc.
  2. Created by: Bram Cohen
  3. Implemented: July 2001
  4. Used for downloading music, videos, and software
  5. Requires a BitTorrent client like Azureus or uTorrent for Windows, or Transmission for Mac

• BitTorrent Controversy

  Although the BitTorrent protocol is ostensibly designed for legal file distribution, many users and web sites have used it to distribute and download unlicensed content, violating the copyrights of the owners of the content. The MPAA has been particularly vocal and active in combating this kind of use, playing key roles in the closure of several torrent tracking sites that provides such content. BitTorrent Inc. maintains that their protocol is intended for legal uses, and have formed several content distribution deals with 20th Century Fox and other legitimate content providers.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  How To Use BitTorrent | P2P | Online Video | File Sharing

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