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Torrenting is a term that gets thrown around on the internet a lot.

Most of the time it is used correctly, but occasionally its terminology gets blurred.

Graphic interpretation of torrenting

Simply, it is a method for sharing and downloading files.

However, torrenting is different to your usual download.

In this instance, it isnt just you downloading a file directly.

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Instead, torrenting employs the use of apeer-to-peer internet (P2P)to aid the download.

Not sure what a peer-to-peer web connection is?

Dont worry, we cover all of that below.

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But the key point is that it makes downloads faster and easier for your system to handle.

It offers top-of-the-line privacy, and every plan can be used on an unlimited number of devices.

It won’t break the bank, either, with prices starting from just over$2 per month.

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It also has a30-day money-back guaranteeso you could try it out before you commit.

What is P2P?

Torrenting relies heavily on the use of a peer-to-peer connection.

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This is a decentralised internet system that connects multiple computers to share resources without a connecting server between them.

Put more simply, a P2P is a way of sharing the workload when downloading something.

This can cause a strain on the connection, slowing things down unnecessarily.

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How do torrents work?

So a P2P system is quicker, but how does a torrent actually work?

This breaks the file into smaller pieces.

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As you download pieces, your torrent client also shares them with our users in the group.

Most noticeably, yourIP addressis visible to everyone who is sharing that same torrent file.

This is a problem that can be alleviated with one of thebest VPNs.

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These will keep your IP address hidden while you torrent.

Torrenting also uses up a lot of bandwidth.

The world of torrenting is also monitored closely by copyright holders and anti-piracy organisations.

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They have been know to identify and prosecute individuals who are downloading or sharing copyrighted content without permission.

How to stay safe when torrenting?

By and large, torrenting is a safe practice.

IPVanish

However, there are a few key practices to keep in mind to make the whole process safer.

Firstly, and most importantly, it is important to choose a well-known and trusted torrenting client.

There are plenty of options out there, some a little shadier than others.

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Choose one that is well-reviewed and used often.

Whichever VPN you choose should have a reliable kill switch for torrenting.

Alternatively, looking into themost secure VPNscan offer you a wider net of protection.

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When torrenting, it is important to keep your antivirus software up to date and install a firewall.

This, in conjunction with a good VPN, will keep you safe through the download.

Bottom line

So, thats torrenting.

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However, it can also be risky.

Torrenting can expose you to malware or legal action from both legitimate and illegitimate sources.

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