Torrent Files allows its users to download files from other users' computers using the BitTorrent manager program. When you seed a file, you make it available for other users to download from your computer. This wikiHow teaches you how to seed files using the BitTorrent manager program.
Step
Method 1 of 1: Downloading Files
Step 1. Download the BitTorrent manager program
There are various BitTorrent management programs that can be used. Most programs can be downloaded for free. These programs include uTorrent, Azureus, Vuze, and qBitTorrent. However, be careful. Some programs are injected with other software, advertising tools, or even malicious software. Pay close attention when downloading the BitTorrent manager program. Make sure you decline the offer or uncheck the box if prompted to download additional programs when installing the BitTorrent manager program. Follow these steps to download the BitTorrent manager program:
- Visit the website of the desired BitTorrent manager program.
- Click the download link according to your computer's operating system (eg Windows 10 or MacOS).
- Open the downloaded installation file in the “Downloads” folder.
- Follow the installation instructions.
- Remove the check from the box or click “ Decline ” to decline the offer to install additional programs that you receive.
Step 2. Open the BitTorrent manager program
Once the program has finished installing, simply click the program icon on the desktop, Windows “Start” menu, or Dock to open the program.
Step 3. Select the download location
The download location is the directory where the downloaded file is saved. By default, most programs will save downloaded files to the “Downloads” folder. If you want to choose a different location, click the gear icon or the “Options”/” Settings” menu. Look for the “Download” option and click the option to change the download storage directory.
Step 4. Download the torrent file
You can download torrent files from torrent search sites. These sites experience frequent URL changes due to legal issues regarding torrent file sharing. You need to use a search engine like Google or DuckDuckGo to search for torrent sharing sites first. Some popular torrent search sites include ThePirateBay, Zooqle, and LimeTorrents. However, be aware that many torrent sites display ads and adult content. Follow these steps to download torrents.
- Visit a torrent search site.
- Use the search bar to search for movies, music, books, documents, or programs.
- Click the magnet link icon to download the torrent file (be careful! Many torrent sites display fake links that actually contain malware).
Step 5. Open the torrent file
Usually, you just have to double-click the file to open it in the main BitTorrent manager program. If it doesn't open, use a manager program and click the option to add a new torrent file. This option is usually located on the main page or menu “ File Select the torrent file and click “ Open ”.
Step 6. Wait for the file to finish downloading
The time it takes to complete the download depends on the speed of your internet connection, the connection speed of the user/file owner, and the number of seeds available. Wait for the file to finish downloading. After that, leave the file in its storage folder.
Step 7. Keep the BItTorrent manager program running
Make sure the computer remains connected to the internet network. The status of the file in the program will change to “'seeding'”.
- You can close the BitTorrent manager program and run it again later. However, make sure you keep torrent files and downloaded files in their storage folder.
- Leave the file seeded until the ratio reaches “1”. This ratio indicates that you have seeded the file as much as the size/ratio of the downloaded file. Keep seeding for as long as you want.
Step 8. Understand the risks and legalities of seeding torrent files
In most countries, it is illegal to share copyrighted content. Sharing and downloading content like this runs the risk of getting you a fine or even jail time. The internet service provider can track your activities on the network. It's a good idea to use a VPN when using a torrent manager program. Download and share files through the BitTorrent manager program at your own risk.
Tips
- You won't get any impact if you don't seed until the file ratio reaches “1”. However, it is common etiquette that you are expected to share as much as you can afford.
- A good standard torrent manager program like uTorrent will start the seeding process automatically once the file has finished downloading, so it's a good idea to use this program.
- As general etiquette, seed as much as you download. Not seeding until the file ratio reaches “1” won't have any impact on your computer. However, some sites may require you to reach a certain upload rate in order to continue membership on that site.
Warning
- Sharing copyrighted content without permission carries a risk of imprisonment or a fine.
- When using and sharing torrent files, you may be subject to scrutiny by various anti-piracy and legal agencies. Therefore, use this service with caution.