P2P vs. BitTorrent: Download Speed Differences

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In summary, BitTorrent is a type of P2P network that allows users to download content faster, but the speed depends on the swarm and network configuration. Other P2P networks, such as gnutella, used to be popular, but BitTorrent is now considered the most reliable and efficient option. Users may experience slow download speeds if their router and firewall are not properly configured, and it is recommended to avoid using BearShare due to potential security risks.
  • #1
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Everytime I use BitTorrent it downloads stuff slower than when I download stuff with P2P programs, such as BearShare. I thought that BitTorrent was supposed to allow users to download stuff faster than P2P. What is the deal?
 
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  • #2
BitTorrent is a type of P2P network, so it doesn't make any sense to compare P2P vs. BitTorrent.

Your speed depends on the swarm, and also on your network configuration. I have participated in BitTorrent swarms that took ages and ages to finish, since there were only a couple of peers, and I've also participated in swarms that were quite quick. Also, many clients throttle connections that upload very slowly, so you have to have a reasonably good upload speed to expect good download spees.

Read some of the BitTorrent FAQs around on the web, and go through their speed sections. You might find that you just have something misconfigured.

- Warren
 
  • #3
Generally if you have slow download speeds (in BT) its usually attributed to improper router/firewall setup. You must enable port forwarding. In your router configuration page, forward the particular port that your BT client uses (example 6881) to your local IP.
 
  • #4
and, for the record, never EVER use BearShare. It has more diseases than any hooker in the world.
 
  • #5
kurushio95 said:
and, for the record, never EVER use BearShare. It has more diseases than any hooker in the world.
What is a good P2P network apart from Bearshare and BitTorret?
 
  • #6
The gnutella networks used to be rocking. But IMO, nothing can compare to BitTorrent. Its come along way.
 
Last edited:

1. What is P2P and BitTorrent?

P2P stands for peer-to-peer, which is a type of network where computers communicate directly with each other, rather than through a central server. BitTorrent is a specific type of P2P network used for file sharing.

2. How do P2P and BitTorrent differ in terms of download speed?

P2P networks typically have slower download speeds because the file is being downloaded from multiple sources simultaneously, which can cause congestion and slower transfer rates. BitTorrent, on the other hand, uses a process called "swarming" where the file is split into smaller pieces and downloaded from multiple sources, allowing for faster and more efficient downloads.

3. Is there a difference in download speed between P2P and BitTorrent?

Yes, as mentioned before, BitTorrent tends to have faster download speeds due to its use of "swarming" technology. However, the actual download speed also depends on other factors such as the number of seeders (users who have the complete file) and leechers (users who are currently downloading the file).

4. Are there any security risks associated with using P2P or BitTorrent?

There are potential security risks with both P2P and BitTorrent, as these networks rely on users sharing files directly with each other. This means that there is a higher chance of downloading malicious files or being exposed to viruses. It is always important to use caution and have proper anti-virus software when using these networks.

5. Which one is better for downloading large files: P2P or BitTorrent?

BitTorrent is generally considered better for downloading large files due to its use of "swarming" technology, which allows for faster and more efficient downloads. However, the actual download speed may still vary depending on factors such as the number of seeders and leechers.

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