How to install qBittorrent on Linux?

Refer to the INSTALL file in the repository or use package managers like apt for Ubuntu; detailed instructions are on the official wiki for various distributions.

Is qBittorrent better than uTorrent?

qBittorrent is often preferred for being open-source and ad-free, with similar features, but uTorrent might have more plugins. qBittorrent excels in stability and cross-platform support.

Can I use qBittorrent with a VPN?

Yes, but it requires manual VPN configuration at the system or router level, as qBittorrent doesn't include built-in VPN integration. Ensure your setup routes torrent traffic through the VPN.

How to set up bandwidth limits in qBittorrent?

Go to the settings menu under 'Speed' to configure global or per-torrent upload/download limits, allowing precise control over network usage as part of its feature set.

Does qBittorrent work on a headless server?

Yes, it can run in a headless mode on Linux servers, often using the Web UI for remote management, but additional setup is needed compared to dedicated server clients.

What are qBittorrent's system requirements?

It's lightweight and runs on most modern systems; minimum requirements depend on the OS, but generally, it needs a few hundred MB of RAM and standard processor support, with details on the wiki.

qBittorrent

NOASSERTIONC++release-5.2.1Self-Hosted

A free and open-source BitTorrent client written in C++/Qt, offering a fast, stable, and feature-rich alternative to other clients.

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What is qBittorrent?

qBittorrent is a free and open-source BitTorrent client that enables users to download and share files using the peer-to-peer BitTorrent protocol. It is built with C++ and the Qt framework, leveraging the libtorrent library for core torrent functionality. The project solves the need for a reliable, feature-rich, and cross-platform torrent client without the ads or limitations of many proprietary alternatives.

Target Audience

Users who need a stable and efficient torrent client for downloading and sharing files across Windows, macOS, Linux, and other platforms. It appeals to those seeking an open-source alternative to commercial clients like uTorrent.

Value Proposition

Developers choose qBittorrent for its speed, stability, and comprehensive feature set, all while being completely free and open-source. Its use of libtorrent ensures robust protocol support, and the Qt framework provides a consistent cross-platform experience.

Overview

qBittorrent BitTorrent client

Use Cases

Best For

Downloading large files via BitTorrent efficiently

Related Projects

Community-curated · Updated weekly · 100% open source

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38.0k stars4.7k forks0 contributors

Seeding torrents with reliable uptime and performance

Managing multiple torrents with advanced scheduling and bandwidth controls

Using a cross-platform torrent client on Windows, macOS, or Linux

Avoiding ads and bloat common in proprietary torrent clients

Contributing to or customizing an open-source torrent client

Not Ideal For

Users needing a web-based interface for remote torrent management without installing additional software
Those who prefer a minimalist, zero-configuration client with no advanced features
Projects requiring built-in media streaming or playback capabilities
Environments where proprietary software with dedicated commercial support is required

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cross-Platform Reliability

Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with consistent performance, as highlighted in the key features, ensuring broad accessibility.

Feature-Rich Management

Includes tools like search, scheduling, and bandwidth control, providing comprehensive torrent handling without extra plugins.

Open-Source and Ad-Free

Built with C++/Qt and libtorrent, it's completely free and avoids the ads or bloat common in proprietary clients like uTorrent.

Global Usability Support

Offers Unicode support and IP-to-country resolution using a free database, enhancing international user experience as noted in the README.

Cons

No Integrated Media Features

Lacks built-in streaming or playback, requiring users to rely on external applications for media consumption, unlike some competitors.

Setup Complexity for New Users

Installation requires referring to an INSTALL file, which can be more involved than one-click installers, potentially deterring non-technical users.

Limited Third-Party Extensions

Has a smaller plugin ecosystem compared to proprietary clients, restricting advanced customization and integration options.

Open Source Alternative To

qBittorrent is an open-source alternative to the following products:

V

Vuze

Vuze (formerly Azureus) is a free, open-source BitTorrent client written in Java that supports advanced features like magnet links, torrent creation, and plugin extensions.

BitTorrent

BitTorrent is a peer-to-peer file sharing protocol that enables users to distribute data and electronic files over the Internet in a decentralized manner.

u

uTorrent

uTorrent is a lightweight BitTorrent client for Windows that enables peer-to-peer file sharing with minimal system resource usage and a simple interface.

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