Downloading torrents can be a dangerous task, and using an unprotected internet connection puts you at risk of legal trouble and cyber attacks.
A VPN is the best way to safely and anonymously download torrents as it provides high levels of security and privacy. Also, don’t forget to use an antivirus as some torrents may be malware loaded. Download Anonymously with a VPN. Each step below explains in detail how to download torrents anonymously. Step #1, using a no-log torrent VPN, is mandatory: it is simply a “must” for anonymous torrenting. Step #2, using an IP address protection tool, like PeerBlock, is an “optional” step.
If you want totorrent anonymously and without putting your device at risk, you need to use a high-quality VPN.
VPNs encrypt your internet traffic so that nobody can see what you do online. If you accidentally download a copyrighted file while using a VPN, you won’t receive any cease and desist orders in the mail.
Because your IP address is visible to other BitTorrent users, it’s easy for trolls and hackers to target your device. Your VPN will mask your IP address to make it look like you’re accessing the internet from a different location. If attackers can’t see your real IP, they can’t do you any harm.
IP masking will also help you bypass censorship and access blocked websites and services. So, if local authorities ban your favorite torrent source, you’ll still be able to access it.
If you’re new to the world of torrents and P2P file sharing, this article is for you. But even if you’re an experienced torrenter, you’ll find some handy tricks to keep your connection safe.
How to Download Torrents Safely: Quick Guide
- Install a VPN with P2P-optimized servers. We recommend NordVPNfor the best security.
- Open your VPN app and connect to a high-speed server in your country.
- Download a fast, reliable BitTorrent client.
- Head to one of our recommended torrent websites, download your file, and enjoy!
How Does P2P File Sharing Work?
BitTorrent file sharing technology is different from conventional file transferring. Unlike websites, which rely on a central server to store files, BitTorrent stores files on the computers of all the people in a file sharing network. This is known as peer-to-peer computing.
The computers in the network – sometimes called a swarm – break files down into very small chunks, which can then be reconstituted by whoever wants to download a particular file.
In other words, any file that is being downloaded is simultaneously uploaded for others to use.
The fact that the workload is distributed among an entire network of computers – rather than a single server – as well as the fact that you don’t have to wait for an entire file to download before you start uploading it, makes torrenting an incredibly fast means of file sharing.
Why You Need a VPN to Download Torrents Safely
Online Security
Any BitTorrent user can see your IP address when you’re sharing a file. An exposed IP address makes it easy for trolls and spies to discover your location, monitor your browsing activity, and even attack your device.
VPNs mask your IP so that peers, spies, and websites can’t see your real address.
Avoid Legal Consequences
If you download a copyrighted file, even by accident, you could be in breach of your local copyright laws. Depending on where you live, this could result in a fine, a court date, or even imprisonment.
A VPN encrypts your data so your ISP and other authorities can’t see your internet activity. Encryption also makes your personal information unreadable to hackers and attackers.
For the highest level on anonymity, only use a VPN that offers 256-bit encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch with all its apps.
Access Blocked Websites
If your favorite torrent website has been blocked in your country, don’t despair! By masking your IP address, a VPN can help you bypass this block. All you need to do is connect to a server in a country where the site is still available.
You’ll also be able to bypass geo-restrictions to access services like Netflix and Hulu.
For this, you’ll need a VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth on high-speed servers across the globe.
The Best VPNs for Downloading Torrents Safely
1. NordVPN
High-speed connections, unlimited data, and impressive security features make NordVPN one of the best choices for torrenting. You just can’t go wrong with its strong P2P support.
For regular browsing and streaming, you’ll have your choice of 5,000+ servers in 60 countries.
When you’re torrenting, NordVPN will automatically reroute your connection to the best available P2P server to keep your downloads speedy and safe. You can connect up to six devices simultaneously to keep your entire household protected.
Try NordVPN risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee to see what it can do for you.
NordVPN can unblock:- Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Showtime, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and Sling TV.
Supports torrenting:
- Yes, P2P specialty servers available.
NordVPN works on these devices:
- Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, Chrome, and Firefox. It’s also compatible with routers.
2. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is celebrated for its high-end security features and super-fast connections. These are just two of the things that make it a favorite among the torrenting community.
It even has P2P-optimized servers, designed to speed up and protect your downloads.
When you aren’t torrenting, you’ll have your choice of over 3,600 servers across 60 countries. This means you’ll have high-speed, global access to geo-restricted services like Netflix US and HBO GO.
With CyberGhost, you’ll enjoy unlimited bandwidth and apps for all major platforms.
You can try it risk-free with a 24-free trial and a 45-day money-back guarantee. There are also free trials of up to 7 days for Android, iOS, and Windows users.
CyberGhost can unblock:- Dedicated streaming profile with servers optimized for: Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, Hulu, Comedy Central, Eurosport, ESPN, and others.
Supports torrenting:
- Yes; dedicated profile shows countries and number of users.
CyberGhost works on these devices:
- Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire Stick, Android TV, Linux, and Chrome.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a feature-packed VPN that makes torrenting safe, anonymous, and easy.
Its easy-to-use apps for perfect for beginners, and also offer the kind of customization thatexperienced users will love. It operates 3,000+ servers across 94 countries, so you’ll never run out of things to watch online.
ExpressVPN uses high-end security features like 256-bit encryption and an automatic kill switch to protect your data 24/7. A strict no-logs policy guarantees you complete anonymity.
As an ExpressVPN user, you’ll enjoy unlimited bandwidth for up to three of your devices simultaneously.
You can use its 30-day money-back guarantee to test it out risk-free. There are also free trials of up to 7 days on Android and iOS devices.
ExpressVPN can unblock:- Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Showtime, Sling TV, DAZN, and BBC iPlayer.
Supports torrenting:
- Yes, all servers support P2P activity.
ExpressVPN works on these devices:
- Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, Chrome, and Firefox. It also offers an app for use with certain routers.
4. VyprVPN
VyprVPN’s speedy and secure service includes P2P compatibility and top-notch security features, such as military-grade encryption and a NAT Firewall.
VyprVPN goes to great lengths to make sure your connection is secure and anonymous. It recently undertook an independent security audit, and passed with flying colors!
Best of all, VyprVPN is extremely easy to use and offers apps for most devices. Its impressive service has VPN users around the worldsaying great things!
When you sign up with VyprVPN, you may be randomly selected to enjoy a 3-day free trial or a 30-day money-back guarantee. Unfortunately, the company does not offer these benefits to all users automatically.
VyperVPN can unblock:
- Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer.
Supports torrenting:
- Yes, all servers support P2P activity.
VyperVPN works on these devices:
- Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Routers, Android TV, QNAP, Blackphone, Anonabox.
5. PrivateVPN
Operating over 80 servers in 57+ countries, PrivateVPN is known for its ultra-fast speeds and competitive pricing.
With its ZERO data logging policy, IPv6 leak protection and kill switch, it comes to no surprise that this provider markets itself as the world’s most trusted VPN service.
You can protect up to 6 devices with PrivateVPN, and there are apps for all platforms. With all of these great features, it’s easy to see why its customers rate it so highly.
You can try PrivateVPN entirely risk-free thanks to its 7-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee.
PrivateVPN can unblock:- Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.
Supports torrenting:
- Yes, all servers support P2P activity; list of P2P-optimized servers available through the app.
PrivateVPN works on these devices:
- Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
How To Download Torrent Anonymously Free
Summary
A VPN is the safest, easiest way to protect yourself and your device while downloading torrents.
A high-quality VPN will mask your IP address and encrypt your data to protect you from cyber criminals, spies, and legal trouble.
If you aren’t sure which VPN is the best match for you, we recommend CyberGhost.You can even try it out for free!
Disclaimer: we do not recommend using VPNs to download any copyrighted or illegal material. The main purpose of torrenting with a VPN is to keep your identity and privacy secure, and not to mask any illegal activity.
Further Reading
Want to save some of your hard-earned cash? Our budget-savvy experts have compiled a list of the best VPN deals currently available.
Interested to see what the Pirate Bay has to offers? These top VPNs can help!
If you want to protect more than one device, take a look at the best VPNs for multiple connections.
With these 5 ways you can download Torrents without anyone ever knowing
Recently, there is an increase in privacy services sought by customers due to the spike in the number of BitTorrent users looking for ways to keep their identities secret from the outside world. Discussed below in the post are services that are completely free to the ones that cost several dollars a month. While the paid services can get you the same speeds as the regular connection would, on the other hand, free services are normally slower or have other limitations.
Best Way To Download Torrent Anonymously
Listed below are some of the most-used services that allow BitTorrent users to hide their IP-addresses from the public.
Why Would You Want To Do Anonymous Torrenting?
Although, torrenting isn’t illegal itself, but downloading copyrighted material on BitTorrent is considered illegal. Copyright holders are aware of this fact and actively seeks people who share their copyrighted work. As for torrenting without encryption, it reveals your true identity and IP address, and can they track your ISPs and launch complaints against you and your ISPs, in turn, throttle your internet speed, sends you warning letters on copyright’s holder’s behalf. In worst cases, takes you to civil court for compensation (in theory at least). To avoid such penalties and to download torrents anonymously is to encrypt your BitTorrent traffic.
VPN (VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK)
VPN is viewed as a good way to ensure privacy while using BitTorrent as found out by many BitTorrent users. You can route all your traffic through VPN servers, hide your IP address from the public by paying just a few dollars a month. While there are some VPNs that also offer a free plan, but these are considerably slower and not suitable for more demanding BitTorrent users.
VPNs unlike the other services are not just limited to BitTorrent traffic, they will also hide the source of all the other traffic on your connection too. VPNs that are popular among BitTorrent users are BTGuard, Torguard and PrivateInternetAccess, but you should be able to find a lot more on Google search. It is suggested to ask in advance if BitTorrent traffic is allowed on the service of your choice.
BTGUARD
BTGuard is a proxy service that hides the IP-addresses of its users from the public. As the name already suggests, the service works on Windows, Mac, Linux, which is configured explicitly with BitTorrent users in mind. Users can also set up their own client to work with BTGuard besides using the pre-configured client. It works with all clients that support “Socks V5? proxies including uTorrent and Vuze. Additionally, for the real security purists, BTGuard also includes encryption tunnel software.
TORRENTPRIVACY
A similar service to that of BTGuard, Torrentprivacy is another proxy service for BitTorrent users. With all the necessary settings pre-configured, it offers a modified uTorrent client. However, the service is limited to users on Windows platforms, which is the flipside of this approach. In business for more than two years, TorrentPrivacy is operated by the TorrentReactor.net team.
SEEDBOX
Used for torrent transfers exclusively, a seedbox is BitTorrent jargon for a devoted high-speed server. Users normally get very high download speeds with seedbox while their IP-addresses are not shared with the public. The users can download the files to their PC through a fast http connection once the download has completed.
ANOMOS
The Anomos team describes its project as “Anomos is a pseudonymous, encrypted multi-peer-to-peer file distribution protocol. It is based on the peer/tracker concept of BitTorrent in combination with an onion routing anonymization layer, with the added benefit of end-to-end encryption.”
Anomos is one of the few free multi-platform solutions for BitTorrent users to hide their IP-addresses. However, as Anomos uses its own atorrent format, it is not fully compatible with regular torrent files, which is the downside of this service. Another disadvantage is that the download speeds are normally lower than regular BitTorrent transfers.
More than 1,600 people have asked on the uTorrent Idea Bank for the Anomos protocol to be built in to a future uTorrent build, making it the second most-common suggestion in general.
This would be frustrating to vpn users if it’s true. I have Astrill and I am always confident that my torrenting is safe with it. Please update us on this one!