FrostWire

To those who aren't well versed in this subject, FrostWire is basically a handy file-sharing program. That's true enough, although a more knowledgeable computer user will probably have something to say about such a simple definition. To someone who knows the ins-and-outs of online sharing, this twenty-nine-megabyte download is so much more. Made possible by Peer-to-Peer (P2P) networking, the program links thousands of computers together so that they can share videos, music, and all kinds of multimedia. Then, with the download complete, a music or video lover can use the inbuilt media player to listen to or watch the media file.

There are several names that describe what FrostWire can do. The small software package uses the Peer-to-Peer protocol to connect computers into a kind of virtual network. Using the program settings, someone can then share a hard-drive folder and its stored contents. Music, video, games, documents, all of these formats and more are shareable. The more commonly used label for this function is "Torrenting." Converted into Torrents, there are literally millions of these video and music files flying over P2P networks. In order to find and download one, simply enter its name in FrostWire's powerful search engine. Of course, depending on the number of search engine downloads, it might become a little difficult to choose the desired format or file size. If that's the case, use the search bar's filter to narrow down the list of torrent results.

A dime-a-dozen, or so say some Peer-to-Peer enthusiasts, there are many Torrenting programs available, so what sets FrostWire apart from the rest? Well, there's the search engine and its filterable results. On top of that, there's a built-in media player, which should play the music or video, no matter its format. Next, Windows compatibility ranks high on the features list, but that doesn't mean other systems are left out in the cold. No, the torrenting software is an all-in-one, cross-platform file sharer. Expect to find Mac and Android flavored versions, too, as well as an Ubuntu (Linux) variant. Considering the strong support, the number of available installation platforms, The development of a mass scale user base seems certain. Also included, there's access to Internet radio stations, bandwidth control settings, WiFi sharing, and iTunes Support.

Take note, Torrenting software should be used carefully, for some P2P users exhibit poor judgment. They violate copyright protection laws and share files they have no right to have in their possession. Beware of reckless "Torrenters." Only download legally available files that fall in the Public Domain.

Pros

• An All-In-One file-sharing program
• It's a free cross-platform Torrenting program
• Uses the popular P2P file-sharing protocol
• Adjustable bandwidth settings
• Includes a built-in media player
• A powerful music and video search engine

Cons

• Beware of Copyright issues
• May automatically install other software