Torrenting 101
Published: 2024-06-19 13:51:56

### 1. Get a VPN

Currently, I use [Mullvad](https://mullvad.net/en/vpn), and I won't be swapping as it suits my needs and I have no complaints. I've also used [IVPN](https://www.ivpn.net/) and [Proton](https://protonvpn.com/) *(before the reskin and bad pricing).* These are both fine options, but I prefer Mullvad as it's faster than the others and doesn't need login credentials *(IVPN doesn't either).* It's worth noting that Mullvad doesn't have a lot of servers in different countries, so I would recommend checking if they have [servers in your country](https://mullvad.net/en/servers). If they don't, go with Proton or IVPN.

### 2. Download a torrent client

Right now I use [qBittorrent](https://www.qbittorrent.org/). I've also used [Deluge](https://deluge-torrent.org/) and [Transmission](https://transmissionbt.com/). I would recommend using any of these clients.

### 3. Bind your VPN to your Torrent Client

As a safeguard, I would recommend that everyone bind their VPN to their torrent client. This prevents you from leaking your IP address while torrenting if the VPN disconnects. It will automatically stop all interaction with the torrents as it doesn't have an internet connection, but when you reconnect your VPN, it will resume.

**Tutorials for:**
- [qBittorrent](https://old.reddit.com/r/VPNTorrents/comments/ssy8vv/guide_bind_vpn_network_interface_to_torrent/)
- [Deluge](https://forum.deluge-torrent.org/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=49883)
- [Transmission](https://forum.transmissionbt.com/viewtopic.php?t=11452)


### 4. Public and Private Trackers

Public trackers, such as The Pirate Bay or RARBG, are open for anyone to use and often have a large selection of torrents, but the quality and availability of seeds can vary. On the other hand, private trackers are invite-only communities that typically specialize in specific types of content, such as movies, music, or software. They enforce strict rules regarding seeding ratios and content quality, resulting in faster downloads and better-curated libraries. You might use public trackers for casual downloading or when you can't find a specific torrent on private trackers, while private trackers are preferred for accessing rare, high-quality, or niche content with the added benefits of tighter security and community features.

To gain access to private trackers, you can try to obtain an invite from an existing member, participate in IRC interviews or application processes, or watch for rare open signup periods. Building a good reputation on lower-tier trackers first can help you progress to better ones over time.

### 5. How to gain access to Private trackers

To gain access to private trackers, you can try to obtain an invite from an existing member, participate in IRC interviews or application processes, or watch for rare open signup periods. Building a good reputation on lower-tier trackers first can help you progress to better ones over time.

[A-Z Waitlist](https://discord.gg/pfmAegk8bD)
[r/OpenSignups](https://old.reddit.com/r/OpenSignups/)

### 6. Piracy Media Terminology

- **WEB-DL**: A lossless rip from a streaming service, such as Netflix or Amazon Video, or downloaded via an online distribution website like iTunes, often in high quality with no re-encoding.

- **WEBRip**: A file extracted using the HLS or RTMP/E protocols and remuxed from a TS, MP4, or FLV container to MKV, generally used for releases captured from streaming services.

- **DVDRip**: A lossless rip from a DVD source, formerly common but has diminished in popularity in favor of higher quality Blu-Ray releases.

- **WEB.720p**: A high-definition (720p) release sourced from a streaming service or online distribution platform.

- **Cam**: A low-quality recording made in a movie theater using a camcorder or mobile phone, with distinctly poor audio and video quality.

- **Telesync (TS)**: Similar to a cam, but recorded using professional equipment in a movie theater, often with an external audio source, resulting in slightly better quality than a cam.

- **Blu-ray/BD/BRRip**: An extremely common high-definition rip from a Blu-ray source, making up a large share of the pirated movie market.

- **HDTV**: A high-definition TV recording captured via cable or satellite, usually in 720p or 1080i resolution, often used for TV programs.

- **HC HD-Rip**: A high-contrast, high-definition rip, usually from an HDRip or WEB-DL source.

- **WEB.1080p**: A full high-definition (1080p) release sourced from a streaming service or online distribution platform.