BitTorrent - клиенская программа пиринговой сети, нацеленной на возможность загрузки файлов большого размера. В отличие от других подобных сетей (Kazaa, eDonkey и т.п.), где владельцами одного и того же файла могут быть сразу несколько человек, у которых этот файл находится, BitTorrent предусматривает наличие у файла единственного владельца, который и заинтересован в его распространении. Таким заинтересованным лицом может быть, например, разработчик программного обеспечения (некоторые из разработчиков уже во всю используют сеть BitTorrent).

BitTorrent is a peer-to-peer file sharing (P2P) communications protocol. BitTorrent is a method of distributing large amounts of data widely without the original distributor incurring the entire costs of hardware, hosting and bandwidth resources. Instead, when data is distributed using the BitTorrent protocol, recipients each supply data to newer recipients, reducing the cost and burden on any given individual source, providing redundancy against system problems, and reducing dependence upon the original distributor.

Usage of the protocol accounts for significant traffic on the Internet, but the precise amount has proven difficult to measure. There are numerous compatible BitTorrent clients, written in a variety of programming languages, and running on a variety of computing platforms. The protocol was designed in April 2001, implemented and first released 2 July 2001 by programmer Bram Cohen, and is now maintained by BitTorrent, Inc.

BitTorrent identifies content by URL and is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Web. Its advantage over plain HTTP is that when multiple downloads of the same file happen concurrently, the downloaders upload to each other, making it possible for the file source to support very large numbers of downloaders with only a modest increase in its load.

Serving large files creates problems of scaling, flash crowds, and reliability. The key to cheap file distribution is to tap the unutilized upload capacity of your customers. Their contribution grows at the same rate as their demand, creating limitless scalability for a fixed cost. By using software that was built by the same team that invented BitTorrent, you are guaranteed access to the latest, most efficient methods of getting downloads to your desktop.

• Dynamic bandwidth management - download without disrupting other applications
• Detailed stats on the health of media files provides a safer, more controlled experience
• No hardware configuration - reduced hassle of fast downloads

The new BitTorrent Beta brings together BitTorrent's proven expertise in networking protocols with µTorrent's efficient implementation and compelling UI to create a better BitTorrent client. As we continue to develop this new client, we'll be focused on innovative ways to simplify and improve the BitTorrent user experience.

The new BitTorrent 6.0 client features:
• Lightweight client
• Local peer discovery
• Multiple simultaneous downloads
• Configurable bandwidth scheduler
• Global and per-torrent speed limiting
• Quick-resumes for interrupted transfers
• RSS Downloader
• Trackerless support (Mainline DHT)
• You'll also notice the BitTorrent 6.0 version comes with BitTorrent DNA, which stands for Delivery Network Accelerator.