Should I Use CyberGhost VPN for Torrenting?

The chaotic sea of the Internet offers so much content and interactive opportunities, it can feel overwhelming. In order to stay afloat and retain the knowledge that we find within a click, many of us download and share files.

Although there are multiple ways to download online files, torrenting has become one of the most effective and popular methods. Torrenting can prove valuable when you need to download large amounts of data, or download to multiple computers at once.   

However, this method also presents opportunities for cybercriminals like digital pirates, hackers, and copyright thieves. 

How can you use torrenting for good and protect yourself from bad actors who might use it to scrub sites? How does torrenting work and when is it safe? Is CyberGhost VPN safe to use with torrenting? Does it work? Let’s take a look.  

A breakdown of torrenting

Torrenting is a method for peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing that decentralizes P2P protocol using BitTorrent. Legal torrenting is used to share and sync large amounts of media that you own the rights to or that isn’t under copyright protection.  

In order to understand torrenting, how to utilize it, and VPNs for torrenting, you need to understand P2P, BitTorrent, and how torrenting works.  

How P2P works

Peer-to-peer network sharing involves a group of computer “peers” that share the same data processing permissions and are connected to the same resources. For example, if all of the computers in your home share the same printer, these devices are now utilizing P2P. 

P2P can also be an ad hoc share of resources.The peer-to-peer network online bypasses the need for a separate server computer. This system makes torrenting possible as well.

How torrenting works

A torrent is a file-sharing protocol that contains information about how files are to be distributed. It acts as a guide for the torrenting software, telling it which pieces to download from which sources. It’s like a map that leads your computer through the maze of the Internet and enables it to fully download a file.  

The torrenting method of file-sharing involves distribution of data across multiple computers. Instead of downloading a file from a single source, torrents break down the file into smaller pieces and distribute them among a network of users

BitTorrent and the torrenting process: Decoding tech jargon

BitTorrent software has risen to the top of the P2P landscape, and is a pivotal component in torrenting. Instead of directly downloading the entirety of a file from a single source within the network, BitTorrent breaks the file into multiple little pieces and spreads the pieces out to “peers.” 

The BitTorrent protocol includes components known as leechers, swarms, seeders, and trackers. Here’s how they work:

Leechers:

Leechers join the torrenting party as downloaders of files who disconnect from the torrenting process as soon as they’ve received a full download.

Swarms:

Swarms sound cool, but vaguely ominous. However, the term just refers to the devices that have parts of the file BitTorrent has broken down.The peers who have a piece of the file on their device are members of the “swarm.”

Each swarm member simultaneously uploads and downloads pieces of the file, effectively exchanging them with one another. Once a peer has acquired the entirety of the file, they stop being a consumer and become known as a “seeder.”   

Seeders:

Seeders “tend” to the garden of downloaded files. These recipients are members of the swarm who collect full files and share with others. This helps them experience higher download speeds in future torrenting. 

Seeders are akin to your cool neighbors, who share their Netflix password with you and let you borrow their power tools for extended periods of time.

Trackers:

The trackers are the conductors of the torrenting data exchange symphony. They keep tabs on who’s downloading and uploading, and ensure a seamless and speedy process for torrenting participants.  

What torrenting is used for

Many people use torrenting to download music, movies, and TV shows. However, downloading entertainment files isn’t the only way torrenting is used. You can download games, software, and open source programs such as Deluge via this download process.

This method of file sharing has become an essential tool for the distribution of large files across the Internet.

Is torrenting legal?

Generally, torrenting is legal and used often for completely valid purposes. However, like any tool used for good, it can be used for illegal nefarious purposes when it falls into the wrong hands.

For example, if you download copyrighted content without permission, you are breaking the law. Pirated websites and hackers also use torrenting to complete criminal acts. Thus, it’s important that you ensure you have permission to use torrenting to download a file to stay on the right side of the law.

CyberGhost VPN and torrenting

CyberGhost is a wildly popular Virtual Private Network (VPN) provider used to add a layer of protection and cybersecurity for Internet users. As is true with all VPNs, CyberGhost encrypts your Internet connection, and shields your IP address along with your data, from predators waiting to attack.

CyberGhost VPN features

CyberGhost VPN boasts of appealing features for anyone looking to use a credible VPN. The VPN provider’s highlighted features include:

• VPN service in over 100 countries
• Stream-optimized servers for streaming services including Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, and Max
• Strong digital privacy
• No recorded log of accessed websites, browser history, or IP address 
• Simultaneous VPN use for up to seven devices

How CyberGhost VPN works with torrenting 

CyberGhost VPN supports torrenting and provides an added layer of security to your torrenting activities. By masking your IP address and encrypting your connection, it helps protect your identity and keeps your online activities private.

CyberGhost can protect you from anyone attempting to intercept your torrenting downloads, and scans for viruses in the files you download. The VPN also allows you to use BitTorrent on websites that might have geo-restrictions in place that would otherwise prohibit your torrenting activity. 

In short, CyberGhost VPN is a great option for torrenting.

The cybersecurity risks of torrenting

CyberGhost VPN offers protection, and is a great choice for torrenting. However, it’s crucial to understand the inherent risks associated with any torrenting. Malicious actors often use torrents to distribute malware, and downloading files from untrustworthy sources can expose your computer to various cybersecurity threats. 

Always use caution and verify the reliability of the torrents you choose. By understanding the risks of torrenting and utilizing tools like CyberGhost VPN, you can safely navigate the torrential online seas. Torrent wisely, and may your online adventures remain secure and enjoyable. 

Visit the What Is My IP Address homepage for free cybersecurity tools and check out our blog for the latest insights and tips on how to protect yourself online.