Can You Upload Videos You Download to YouTube?
Many users go to YouTube to watch a wide variety of videos streamed online. But you can also contribute to the vast library of videos yourself, if you so choose. One way to contribute, is to download movies from one source onto your computer, and then upload that video onto YouTube, where many people can view and comment on your contribution.
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Downloading
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Most videos you download on the Internet will go to a default folder on your computer. Unless you've changed this directory, it's usually the "My Downloads" folder. When looking for a video to upload to YouTube, it's important you have an idea of where your videos are so you know where to find them. Sometimes the video can even be on your desktop, for example. You can download these videos from a few different sources, such as Limewire (see Resources).
Creating an Account
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In order to upload videos onto YouTube, first create an account. Do this by clicking on "Create an Account", which will be in the upper right corner of the website window. Once you've done this, you'll be taken to a new screen. Here you can create your username, as well as input some information about yourself, such as your zip code, state of residence and gender. If your username has been already taken by someone else, the site will automatically offer you some alternatives. Then you can click "I Accept", which will take you to the next screen, where you'll need to create a Google account. If you already have one, you can link them here.
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Uploading
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Once you have a YouTube account, you can begin uploading videos. You can do this by clicking on the "Upload" link on the upper right of the screen after you log in. You'll be taken to a new screen where you can hit the "Upload Video" button. This will let you look through your computer for the video you previously downloaded, and now want to upload. This video can be up to 10 minutes long, but no larger than 2 GB in size. You can also upload up to 10 videos simultaneously.
Legality
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It's only legal to upload videos that you have the right to upload. If you downloaded a movie that is copyrighted, which can be illegal unto itself, then you can't upload it for other people to watch legally. Copyrighted material will generally include anything that can be bought in a store, such as Hollywood movies. Videos that you took yourself, as long as the people or places you taped aren't restricted, are perfectly fine. There are also plenty of videos that don't restrict access and that you can freely distribute. It's a good idea to make sure you're uploading something legal before you do so, as otherwise your YouTube account may be suspended.
Considerations
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Consider a few things before uploading content to YouTube: One is the legality as previously mentioned. Even beyond getting your account deleted, it could land you in legal trouble. Also, make sure that the people depicted in the videos, or the original owner of the video, won't be bothered by your uploading it for the entire world to see. As long as you upload responsibly, the multitudes of viewers on YouTube will be able to enjoy your contribution.
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