Azureus

If you want maximum flexibility when it comes to using BitTorrent, then Azureus is the feature-packed program of choice. While all applications cover the basics, Azureus goes the extra mile, packing in lots of useful features and the capability to add more through plug-ins.

Set-up is reasonably straightforward, but as the software is written in Java you’ll need to download some additional software to get it up and running on your PC. There’s a reasonable chance you’ve got the programs already, otherwise they’re easily downloadable from the Azureus website.

The software can handle multiple BitTorrent files, so you’re not restricted to downloading a single file at a time. There’s also the ability to set an upload limit, putting a restriction on outgoing traffic (other people downloading files from your computer) so that your connection doesn’t get completely swamped and you can still browse the web while waiting for your transfers to complete.

The plug-in system means other people can write add-ons that provide additional functionality and you can simply snap them in to fill any gaps.