Frequently Asked Questions

What is TorrentCloud?

We host your content on the BitTorrent network for you. Here's how it works:

1. You send us a link to your content (on your blog or website)
2. We download a copy to our fast, secure servers.
3. We seed your stuff on our BitTorrent trackers.
4. We create a .torrent file that you can send to others so they can get your content.

What is BitTorrent?

BitTorrent is a computer protocol that enables you to download files very rapidly from many sources at once. It involves two specialized programs -- one, that everyone must download, called a BitTorrent Client -- and another one that the server must run called a BitTorrent Tracker. Click here for more information.

Why can't I host my own files on BitTorrent?

Of course you can! The only problem is that it's complicated to create your own .Torrent files, you need a "Tracker" program running 24 hours a day (or people can't download), and you need to "Seed" (send out or upload) numerous full copies of the program before it can be properly seeded by others. Unless you have your own dedicated server somewhere, it's quite difficult.

Why shouldn't I use my regular Web host for large content?

1. Bandwidth charges → Most discount hosting companies make their real profit on overage charges. That means when your site gets just a little more popular, expect to see your hosting bills double! At TorrentCloud, we worry about bandwidth so you don't have to.
2. Limited space → Most hosting companies limit your space drastically. A couple of 250MB video files and you're into the overage charges. Why not save your hosting webspace for the important stuff and let us take care of the big files? With TorrentCloud, you just pay based on three sizes - no complicated pricing or overage charges.
3. Unable to run a Tracker → To successfully seed a BitTorrent file, you need to have a Tracker that people can point their clients at. The Tracker acts like a traffic cop to control who connects to which other hosts and to keep track of what has and has not been transfered. Many hosting companies won't let you install your own network programs to do this. When you host with TorrentCloud, we take care of the details of running numerous copies of the Tracker software, and thus you are free to worry about your regular Web content.

Should I host my stuff on TorrentCloud?

Our best customers are..

• People with popular blogs about music, videos, media, etc.
• People who do not have reliable internet connections (that means everyone)
• Musicians who want to share their music
• DJs who want to share their live mixes
• Bloggers who want to do Podcasting
• Artists who want to share their works
• Programmers who have large software projects
• Photographers with large photo sets
• Kittens and puppies

What kinds of files should I host on TorrentCloud?

The best candidates are files that are..

• Large (more than 10mb)
• Popular
• MP3s
• ZIPs
• Movies

Please read our terms of service for more information about files that are forbidden from our service.

How much does it cost?

Files smaller than 500MB → $2 one-time fee (FREE unlimited transfers)

Files larger than 500MB → $3 one-time fee (FREE unlimited transfers)

Can I upload from my PC?

We are writing an installable program for PC and Mac OS X to enable you to upload directly from your PC or laptop. We expect this around the end of 2005.