BitTorrent today announced that version 2.0 of its Sync platform for P2P file sharing is shedding the beta tag and becoming available to the general public.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-T_uV2giecI
A quick recap if you’re not familiar: Sync is BitTorrent’s take on sharing files through the cloud, except files aren’t kept on the cloud at all. Instead, users share files using similar protocols to torrents you might use online.
This means files aren’t held in an obscure server somewhere hundreds of miles away from you, and are instead shared directly between clients through the quickest means possible – it could be your local network if you’re in the same room. It’s particularly useful for users and teams needing to transfer huge files (think video editors, for instance).
It also means you always have control over who can access and download files. Because of this, Sync doesn’t require accounts or passwords to stay secure. The company itself never has access to your information.
BitTorrent says its platform is cheaper than competitors like Dropbox as it doesn’t have spend nearly as much money on maintaining storage servers. On the negative side, at least one device hosting the files you’re looking for needs to be turned on for you to access them.
Sync 2.0 additionally introduces a Pro subscription tier that adds functionality for enterprise and power users. Chief among these are:
- Being able to share folders and files in the terabyte range
- Additional folder access permissions and ownership controls for individual users
- On demand access to only the files you need rather than entire folders
- Automated syncing across devices – no need to share links
- Priority technical support
BitTorrent pro is available at $39.99 per year, per user. Teams or companies in need of multiple licenses could get a volume-based discount. Free users have access to all of Sync Pro’s features for 30 days.
You can download and try BitTorrent Sync 2.0 for Windows, Mac, Free BSD and Linux now. Updates for iOS and Android are rolling out throughout the day. For all on what’s new with 2.0, check out BitTorrent’s guide here.
➤ Sync 2.0: Skip The Cloud, Share Direct [BitTorrent]
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