StrongDC++: a Direct Connect client that pulls one file from several users at once
You connect to a Direct Connect hub, find the file you want, and the download crawls because it comes from a single user. StrongDC++ is built to fix that. It is a modified version of the open-source DC++ client, and its main change is that it can take one file from several sources at the same time.
Quick facts
- Version: 2.42
- Platform: Windows
- Price: free, released under the GNU General Public License version 2
- Networks: Direct Connect and ADC
- Languages: Czech and English
Key features
Download one file from many users without corruption
Segmented downloading splits a file across several sources. Segment position and size depend on the file size and on how fast each chunk arrives. This helps most on fast connections, and it is safer than classic single-source downloading.
Share and fetch parts of files that are still downloading
With partial file sharing, you can upload the parts of a file you have already received. You can also download parts that other users are still receiving. This spreads popular files across the network faster.
Keep some bandwidth free for browsing
The download and upload speed limiter stops the client from using your whole line. The download limit depends on the upload limit. The upload limit in turn depends on how many slots and hubs you have open.
Drop slow sources automatically
The client disconnects sources that stay below a speed you set for a set time. During segmented downloads, a source that gets too slow is dropped whatever your setting, so it does not hold a slot for nothing.
Change how it looks and sounds
You can assign sounds to events, change the color scheme or icons, show popup balloons, and use emoticons in chat.
Who it's for
It suits you if you already use Direct Connect hubs and want a client with segmented downloads and partial sharing. It is also for people who like GPL software whose source code they can read. SourceForge lists the intended audience as advanced end users.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and open source.
- Segmented downloads and partial file sharing.
- Speed limiter and automatic removal of slow sources.
- Portable style: the original description says you unzip it and run the .exe.
Cons
- The last release is 2.42, from late 2010, so development has stopped.
- Windows only.
- One reviewer on SourceForge calls it an outdated client with protocol errors and security vulnerabilities.
- SourceForge users rate support 1 out of 5.
- Some hubs only accept their own clients and will kick you out. Their hub descriptions often warn about it.
What users say
"Thanks for sharing. It does a good job." (SourceForge review)
FAQs
Does it need to be installed?
No. You unzip the download, copy the contents to a folder, and run the .exe.
How do I connect to a hub?
Press Ctrl+P or choose File > Public Hubs. Wait for the hub list to load, then double-click a hub.
Where are the settings?
Go to File > Settings, or click the toolbar icon.
Is it free?
Yes. It is released under the GPL, and the source code is available.
Which networks does it support?
It works with Direct Connect and ADC networks.