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[Birbo]

Just got a new computer with a CD burner. Not even really sure what a torrent actually is, though I have a vauge idea. What are the ups and possible dangers of these & how can I protect my new computer? Thanks in advance.

 

[Megafoo Chavez]

www.kazaa.com don't worry, your computer will be safe.

 

[Wario64]

The ups - you get stuff for free
Possible dangers - going to prison

 

[Birbo]

Are any of them legal?

 

[JoshuaJSlone]

The dangers of torrents are the same as any other type of download, really. The advantage is that it's a pretty nifty way of sharing a file amongst many people. Basically, all the people connected to each other share random parts of a file (or set of files). Helps save the bandwidth of those with the original file, and makes it more likely the end user will be able to complete the download even if there aren't any others with the full download currently on.

 

[JoshuaJSlone]

Are any of them legal?

There's http://www.legaltorrents.com , though it's giving me an error message at this moment. Also you'll just find them at various places that aren't exactly torrent repositories. OverClocked Remix has torrents containing several hundred songs apiece, for instance.

 

[Wario64]

Torrents can be used to transfer legal files too, but it's mostly used to distribute illegal material. It's just another way to distribute files around without sucking up major bandwidth (since everyone on a torrents shares parts of the files)

Just don't download anything illegal like full version of games and movies