.torrent files are download instructions for the real file.
When you use a .torrent file using BitTorrent, you will connect to a miniature peer-to-peer network, then start downloading the file, and uploading other components. Once the download is complete, the client will stay open until you close it, uploading pieces of the file (and helping others get copies of the file).
Naturally, you need a network connection for this to work.
BitTorrents are useful because they spread the upload work over every person downloading the file. Instead of a central server getting overloaded, every client pitches in and the file gets downloaded much faster than if everyone downloaded from the central server.
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Last edited by JHVH : 10-29-4004 BC at 09:00 PM. Reason: Time for a rest.
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