Torrenting is one of the most popular activities among the VPN users. In fact, some folks started using VPNs so they could freely and more securely download files using BitTorrent.
In this article, we’re going to briefly talk about why this is the case, but first, let’s quickly define what BitTorrent is all about so you could understand why it’s so popular.
BitTorrent 101
BitTorrent is a communication protocol for peer-to-peer file sharing (P2P) which is used to distribute data and electronic files over the Internet. Launched in 2001 by programmer Bram Cohen, it is one of the most common protocols for transferring large files, such as video and audio files. In addition, BitTorrent is also used for the exchange of other files, such as books, software and more — with some companies using it as their primary distribution channel.
To send or receive files, a person uses a BitTorrent client on their computer, smartphone or tablet. This BitTorrent client is a computer program that implements the BitTorrent protocol. BitTorrent trackers provide a list of files available for transfer and allow the client to find peer users known as “seeds” who may transfer the files.
In February 2013, BitTorrent alone was responsible for 3.35% of all worldwide bandwidth, more than half of the 6% of total bandwidth dedicated to file sharing. Also, as of 2013, BitTorrent has 15-27 million concurrent users at any time.
As of January 2012, BitTorrent is utilized by 150 million active users. Based on this figure, the total number of monthly BitTorrent users may be estimated to more than a quarter of a billion.
A VPN makes torrenting more secure
With a VPN app running on your device, you get to anonymously download and upload files via BitTorrent. This is because the VPN app will mask your real IP address and, instead, show the rest of the BitTorrent network (and the entire internet) a different address. This, BTW, is the same way a VPN lets you anonymously browse the web.
With your real IP address hidden, you are more protected online — including from BitTorrent users some of which may be hackers. Nevertheless, you will still need anti-virus software to scan all the files downloaded via torrent.
Also, it is worth adding that some VPN providers have dedicated servers for P2P traffic and when you are looking to download a file or send it to other people via BitTorrent — make sure to connect to those servers (cause they are optimized to provide you with fast connections). On the other hand, some VPNs don’t distinguish between P2P and other traffic, which is an equally good solution.
It’s not (all) about piracy…
Technically speaking BitTorrent technology is not illegal; however, it is illegal to download and distribute copyrighted material — a practice known as piracy. And here we must say that we never advocate piracy. If you want to watch a movie or TV show, or listen to some music – pay for it. The same goes for downloading software – you should pay to use it.
BitTorrent also lets you find content or products that were released many years ago and are no longer available in either a digital or an ordinary store. This is what makes BitTorrent truly unique.
In addition, and as we’ve mentioned above, some companies use BitTorrent to distribute their digital products, such as audio and video files, ebooks, apps and so on. This approach lets them save money on server costs while delivering solid speeds for the customer.
But it has a lot to do with privacy…
…and the speed of the connection. ISPs tend to dislike torrent users with some of them even throttling the speed of your connection when they see you’re downloading or uploading files via BitTorrent. They can easily detect P2P traffic if you’re not using a VPN, whereas with a VPN – they’ll see everything as regular “https” traffic.
In addition, certain governments may also decide to spy on you when they detect that you’re frequently torrenting from your computer. Again, with a VPN – they don’t stand a chance, cause they won’t be able to know your web whereabouts.
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So why would you let anyone know what you’re doing online? Get a VPN, start it up and do whatever you want online. It’s actually that easy.
If you’re looking for a VPN to use primarily for torrenting, we suggest you check out our list of Best VPNs for Torrenting. All services on that list have millions of users and you can hardly go wrong by picking any one of them. But for the best overall experience, go for the top pick and forget about it. Let it do its magic in the background while you safely and securely download and upload files. Also, those VPNs will let you anonymously browse the web, access streaming services, and do so much more.
Don’t spend another day online without a VPN running on all your devices. With government agencies and major corporations watching every move we make, that’s just the way to roll these days.