| BitTorrent |
A peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing protocol used for distributing large amounts of data over the internet, where files are broken into small pieces and shared among multiple users simultaneously. |
| Buffer |
The difference between the amount of data a user has uploaded and downloaded on a private tracker |
| DHT |
A decentralized method used by BitTorrent to track peers without relying on a central server, enabling peer discovery and file sharing even if the tracker is unavailable |
| Freeleech |
A status assigned to certain torrents on a private tracker where the downloaded data does not count towards a user's download ratio, encouraging increased participation and sharing |
| Hit and run |
A term used to describe when a user downloads a file from a private tracker but fails to continue seeding it to the required ratio or for a specified period |
| Leecher |
A user who is in the process of downloading a file but has not yet completed the download or is not actively uploading (sharing) the downloaded pieces with others |
| Magnet link |
A type of hyperlink used in BitTorrent that allows users to directly connect to the tracker and peers without needing to download a separate torrent file |
| Neutral leech |
A status assigned to certain torrents on a private tracker where none of the data uploaded or downloaded is counted |
| Peer |
An individual computer or device connected to a P2P network that participates in sharing and downloading files |
| Piece |
A small part of a file that is broken down during the BitTorrent process, allowing simultaneous downloading and uploading of different pieces from different peers |
| Private tracker |
A BitTorrent tracker that requires an invitation to join. Advantages of private trackers include speed, retention, selection, and quality control |
| Public tracker |
A BitTorrent tracker that allows any user to join and participate in file sharing without requiring registration or authentication |
| Ratio |
The ratio between the amount of data uploaded by a user and the amount downloaded. Private trackers often enforce minimum ratio requirements to ensure fair sharing among users. |
| Seedbox |
A dedicated remote server optimized for high-speed downloading and seeding of torrents |
| Seeder |
A user who has completed downloading a file and continues to share it with other users by uploading the file pieces they possess |
| Swarm |
The collective group of peers (both seeders and leechers) participating in the distribution of a particular file through BitTorrent |
| Torrent client |
Software or application used to download and upload files using the BitTorrent protocol |
| Torrent file |
A small file that contains metadata about the files to be shared and the tracker information required to initiate and coordinate the downloading process |
| Tracker |
A server or web service that assists in coordinating the communication between peers in a BitTorrent network by keeping track of which peers possess which pieces of a file |
| Racing |
Being the first in a swarm to maximize upload |