BitTorrent 7.11.0 Build 47225 for Windows

BitTorrent 7.11.0 Build 47225 for Windows is the classic desktop client from BitTorrent Inc for downloading and sharing files over the BitTorrent protocol. You can download it from bittorrent.com; the answers below cover how it works, what the free version includes and how to install it without surprises.

What is BitTorrent?

The name stands for two things. BitTorrent is a peer-to-peer protocol created by Bram Cohen in 2001, in which people who download a file also upload pieces of it to others, so large files spread quickly without one central server. BitTorrent is also the official client program, now developed by Rainberry, Inc., the company formerly known as BitTorrent Inc. The Windows client opens torrent files and magnet links, fetches the data from many peers at once and keeps sharing it after the download finishes, which is called seeding. You can pause and resume transfers, set speed limits and choose which files inside a torrent to download. The program is small and quick to install, and its window follows the classic torrent-client layout of a list with progress bars and a details pane. It is written in C++ and Python and runs on Windows, with a separate app for Android.

Is BitTorrent free?

The basic client is free, but it is ad-supported: Wikidata classes it as adware and shareware. The free version shows advertising, and paid editions remove the ads and add extra features. Many users are happy with the free version once they know what to expect.

How do I install it safely?

1. Download the installer from the official site, bittorrent.com.
2. Read every installer screen carefully and decline offers for extra software.
3. Choose the download folder and whether the client should start with Windows.
4. In the settings, set an upload limit so torrents do not slow down the rest of your connection.

How large is the download?

About 3.7 MB according to catalogue data, so installation takes seconds.

Is it safe to use?

The official client is legitimate software, but torrents themselves can carry malware disguised as films, games or programs. Scan downloaded files, avoid executable files from unknown uploaders and keep your antivirus active. Watch the installer for bundled offers.

Is torrenting legal?

The technology is legal and widely used for open-source software, game updates and public-domain media. Sharing copyrighted content without permission is not, and in many countries rights holders track torrent traffic. Download only what you have the right to use.

What are the pros and cons?

• Pro: tiny installer.
• Pro: simple, familiar interface.
• Pro: official client of the protocol's original developer.
• Con: ads in the free version.
• Con: installer offers need unticking.

What are the alternatives?

Other torrent clients in our listings: qBittorrent, a free open-source client without ads; uTorrent; Deluge and BitComet. On Android, BitTorrent is available on Google Play.