How to Change Downloads From Limewire to U-Torrent

The world of P2P and file sharing may seem a confusing mass of techno mumbo jumbo to those new to it. The current most popular method uses a type of patchwork system known as "torrents," in which multiple people share multiple parts of a file with each other via a shared network. Programs like Utorrent splice the collected pieces together into a continuous file. Lime Wire, another well-known program, has lost much of its popularity in recent years to this newer "torrent" method due to a number of reasons. Basically, torrents are faster, cleaner and higher quality, and their popularity gives users a much more extensive selection of files.

Instructions

1. Uninstall Lime Wire. File sharing programs don't comingle happily on your computer and compete for space. It's best to remove Lime Wire altogether. Once uninstalled, delete any remaining folders and icons from your desktop or hard drive.

2. 

   Download Utorrent at www.utorrent.com and click "run" at the prompt. Follow the program's settings recommendations apart from the toolbar offer. Utorrent is now ready for use.

3. Open Internet Explorer and search for torrent sites such as www.mininova.com. Locate the desired file by category, genre or name.

4. 

   Only choose a file after checking type, size and ratio of seeds and leechers, and reviewing user comments. Double click the file, download the torrent and try to open it directly to Utorrent. If you are unable to open it, save it to desktop or a new folder, and open it manually under "file."

5. Download speeds can fluctuate but generally peak within 5 to 10 minutes after loading. Completed files can be found in the "Downloads" folder in "My Documents."

Tips & Warnings

• Increase your download speed by reducing upload speeds to a limit of 3KB by right clicking file in Utorrent. When choosing a file, review any comments made about the file. They may indicate a corrupt or infected file. If downloading video, "Avi" and "Divx" formats are easiest to work with. Torrent sites often slow down the overall speed of your computer, so it's best to download overnight or other off times.

• Viruses are a common feature of P2P and file sharing. Keep your protection up to date and thoroughly check file before opening. Peer to peer file sharing remains a controversial topic and has engendered tough legal questions regarding the status and power of copyrights. Anyone engaging in file sharing should understand that the majority of content is illegal to exchange, and may suffer warnings or legal action.

Resources

• New York Times
• Utorrent