Streaming sites may have come a long way since their inception, but torrenting, the practice of downloading video games, music, or movies through BitTorrent, is still massively used. Torrenting remains among the most popular, user-friendly, and efficient methods of peer-to-peer file-sharing, as people are drawn to the product's cost-effectiveness. Such software can be downloaded and used for free on many devices by anyone with a basic understanding of how programs work, which fuels its stagnant popularity.
However, when it comes to resorting to this venture to download entertaining content, one thing is for sure: anonymity can be a godsend. If you're new to torrenting, you may be unfamiliar with the implications of using a virtual private network (VPN) to secure your experience. On the other hand, if you have a little experience in this respect, you likely already know that using a VPN for torrenting is highly advised and commonplace. As such, what is left to do is understand what it brings to the table, determine the characteristics that make a good VPN service, and ultimately learn how to use it.
For a seamless torrenting experience, this article provides valuable insights that every torrent enthusiast needs to know.
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What you should know about VPNs before getting one for torrenting
If you think that you can download files through Torrent without a VPN and not leave traces, you should reconsider. One of the best aspects of using a VPN is that getting caught while engaged in this practice becomes virtually impossible. While torrenting without VPN protection is possible, it is not the best way to go around. In this day and age, everyone wants online privacy to ensure they handle their business without having all eyes on them, especially the internet service provider (ISP), government, or other parties with access. Believe it or not, your ISP can see almost everything you do online, and prospects are that your information can be handed over to third parties. Having your ID address exposed for not using a private network is not exactly what you want, especially since hiding it is easily done with the right provider. If you're going to torrent or use the internet connection for any other type of activity, whether you shop or check the weather, protecting yourself with a VPN is the best you can do, as it provides advantages like the following two:
Protected data. The world can't stress this enough, but protecting your data against anyone who may gather it without your consent is more important today than ever. You don't even need to do something illegal to find the fact of having your data visible to unconsented parties a bit worrying. Virtual protected networks are designed with this scope and aren't complicated to grasp. A VPN may be associated with a magic portal; it simply redirects your internet connection through a tunnel to provide you with a new IP address that hides your actual one. As such, there's no way that data thieves can track and obtain your location or data, nor can they see your zip code, state, or other location information.
No pop-up ads. Advertisements that arise out of nowhere without your consent can be among the most nerve-wracking situations when browsing online. However, using a VPN, you'll block access for web browsers and software to send notifications and access your connection, securing the data flow between your device and Torrent.
Must-have characteristics of a good VPN you should look for
Just like searching and selecting any product that has gained your interest, the VPN for torrenting you choose must excel in several respects. Finding a reputable VPN provider shouldn't be complicated, assuming you consider several aspects.
Security. With a rapidly-expanding VPN market, it can be tempting to choose a provider that's not that well-established for different purposes, like decreased cost or much hype created around it. Remember always to ensure that the VPN provider has a lot of background in cybersecurity, is transparent about their privacy policy, and holds, at the bare minimum, features like an automatic kill switch and security protocols. The former ensures your browsing data and real IP stay hidden even in the event of an unforeseen VPN disconnection.
A rigorous no-logs policy. Many VPNs claim to have stringent no-logs policies in place, but only a reliable provider will actually deliver in this respect. This aspect is important because it ensures that your VPN doesn't collect, track, or share any information from you, your online whereabouts, downloads, or searches. This feature protects your anonymity and online privacy from virtually anyone.
Privacy-friendly jurisdiction. In a world where data is among the most valuable assets, it's unsurprising that some governments may attempt to obtain online user data through all sorts of practices, including VPN providers. This anonymity-breaker risk grows considerably higher in the 5/9/14 Eyes Countries. However, by using a provider with a verified no-logs policy, you'll rest assured knowing your data remains safe and undisclosed to any party that may want to obtain it.
Compatibility. One of the most important considerations is to verify if the provider allows torrent downloads. Many products aren't designed with torrenting in mind, so they will impede you from downloading through BitTorrent, but you can find solutions that are created to protect you when torrenting.
Privacy. Privacy is the main concern when selecting a VPN provider, so checking if the service has a verified no-logging policy in place and features such as strong encryption is essential.
Good speed. Last but not least, you want a VPN solution that doesn’t slow down your browsing and downloading experience. If you want to keep bugs, lags, and slowdowns at bay, you should look for a product that has speed-boosting features.
Last words
When torrenting files, you should use a product primed for this practice that ensures security, speed, and reliability. Choosing the right provider and service shouldn't be complicated if you consider the aspects and tips mentioned above.
This article was written in cooperation with Restore Privacy