How to download files anonymously in 3 secure ways

Nowadays, BitTorrent is one of the most popular communication protocols for P2P (peer-to-peer) file sharing as it makes it free, quick, and simple for anyone to distribute content across the web. Rather than downloading a large file from a single source server, this protocol splits the content into small pieces that can be downloaded from multiple sources at the same time. The downside is that the peer-to-peer networking world is also filled with numerous users who would take advantage of this protocol to get their eyes on your private information. Another aspect is that some network administrators actually ban BitTorrent traffic, wiping out a great way to share your content online.

These issues are the reasons why many users look for solutions to keep their anonymity protected. In this article, I will show you 3 secure ways to download online data without leaving any trace behind.

Tutorial assets

You will need to download the following software to follow along with this tutorial.

Download IPVanish

Download Tor Browser

Use a proxy server

One way to remain anonymous while downloading torrent files with your default BitTorrent client is to use a proxy server. By doing so, you can hide your IP address from prying eyes. Here's what you need to do in order to use a proxy server in Free Download Manager:

Step 1

Launch Free Download Manager on your Windows PC. Access the Settings panel from the main menu of the app (the menu can be revealed by clicking the icon showing 3 lines, on the right side of the interface).

Main Menu Of Free Download Manager

Step 2

Head to the Network panel and select the "Configure manually" option. Fill the proxy server address list with the necessary information.

Network Settings In Free Download Manager

Using a paid proxy is the best solution as it's more secure. Free proxies are usually slow and you can't be 100% sure that you're actually provided with a real layer of protection.

Use a Tor browser

Tor browser is one of the most popular Windows applications that were created to protect your privacy while browsing the web. Tor is safe and comes without a price. This web browser hides your IP address, enabling access to all the websites on the Public domain. You can also use this program when downloading torrent files to bypass IP regulations. Here I will show you how to use Tor browser to download torrents anonymously:

Step 1

Launch your default BitTorrent client. Go to the Preferences panel of the app and configure the settings as shown in the snapshot.

BitTorrent Client Settings

Step 2

Launch Tor browser. Head to the torrents website from where you wish to download files from. Download the torrent files using Tor browser and open them with your default BitTorrent client.

Tor Browser

Use a VPN service

A virtual private network (VPN) makes it possible for users to upload and download torrent files without worrying about leaking information about their personal identities and locations. For a couple of bucks per month, VPNs can protect your privacy by hiding your IP address and routing your traffic data through their servers. There are a couple of free VPN plans, but they're not recommended if you're the type of user who downloads a lot of BitTorrent data as they're a lot slower than the paid VPN plans.

IPVanish is one best VPNs for torrenting as it provides you with the highest security and best speeds. Another thing that makes this app one of the best VPNs is that it comes with affordable plans for its users. Here's how you can use IPVanish to download files anonymously:

Step 1

Launch IPVanish. Log into your personal account. You can create a new account on the homepage of the developer if needed.

IPVanish Login Window

Step 2

Launch your default BitTorrent client. Go to Preferences -> Connection and configure the settings as shown in the screenshot. (Proxy: ams.socks.ipvanish.com)

Configuring BitTorrent Client Settings

Conclusion

In conclusion, you don't need much computer experience in order to complete any of the aforementioned steps. Still, there's no guarantee that these methods will actually help you out. If someone, like a government official or a professional hacker, really wants to find your IP address or location, they will do so despite the precautions you've taken. The best advice that I can give you is to be careful about what you download to your PC and make sure that you follow the laws of your country.

Alternative downloads

BitTorrent free windows BitTorrent makes it easy to connect with cutting-edge indie artists. Download
IPVanish free windows Our VPN software and VPN apps deliver a robust suite of privacy tools with cohesive design and simplicity in mind. Download
Tor Browser free windows Browse the Internet anonymously. Download