FrostWire

FrostWire
License:
Free (GPL)
Language:
English
Developer:
OS:
WinXP/Vista/7
Updated:
See detailed info

Softonic review

Cyril Roger

“Open source alternative to LimeWire”

by Cyril Roger about FrostWire

FrostWire is an open source Peer to Peer (P2P) application based on the Gnutella network and a popular alternative to the now defunct Limewire.

In fact, FrostWire has more than just a few similarities to Limewire, although unlike the latter, it does not carry advertising and there are no annoying pop-ups. Just as Limewire was, FrostWire is straightforward and easy to use. A simple search bar, divided by category, makes it a breeze to browse for a file, whether it is a video, image, audio, or program. FrostWire also has a What’s New button to check out what popular files users have recently exchanged.

One particularly handy feature of FrostWire is a special direct connect option. If you know the IP address of one of your friends, type it in the box and FrostWire will browse to that user’s files. This is a quick way of sharing files with someone you know although it would be even better if you could enter the username of a user rather than the IP address.

In terms of speed, much will depend on the speed of your own connection. It definitely helps though if you've correctly opened your router's ports and whether you’re downloading a popular file or not. To avoid the risk of downloading copyrighted or adult material, FrostWire also allows you to apply content filters. Another handy feature of FrostWire is a built-in media player. Video and audio can be tested using Frostwire’s media player which gives you an immediate preview of your file.

It should be noted that FrostWire is basically a stripped-down version of Limewire, but is a not-for-profit project. The developer claims it will never support Digital Rights Management (DRM) or any type of advertising. However, the demise of Limewire due to legal issues mean that FrostWire may well be targeted in the future for closure.

FrostWire for Mac is a hugely popular alternative for anyone who misses Limewire.

Pros
  • No advertising
  • Allows direct connections with a friend
  • Integrated media player
  • Filter out copyrighted and adult content
Cons
  • Comes with Ask toolbar
Free Download FrostWire

FrostWire (12) User reviews

  • Not bad
  • 5/10
  • bones007 bones007
    User reviews
    1

    what happened to incomming searches? the library does not show you any details of your files I am going back to a older version... More

    • Review of FrostWire - 17 Jul 2011
      This review is liked by 165 of 182
  • User reviews
    0

    Horrible. It lures you into downloading ads disguised as 'best song', 'high quality', 'full version'... and a lot of Limewire junk. Why is it even still active?... More

    • Review of FrostWire - 18 Jun 2011
      This review is liked by 40 of 43
  • mustangii78 mustangii78
    User reviews
    1

    Used this program for music downloads for about a year, but the last few months can't find any songs I used to, get lots of spam "Best song ever!" "Greatest... More

    • Review of FrostWire - 30 Dec 2011
      This review is liked by 6 of 7
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