headermask image

header image

Ares 2.1.1

Introduction:

Ares is a free open source file sharing program that enables users to share any digital file including images, audio, video, software, documents, etc. You may now easily publish your files through the Ares peer to peer network. As a member of the virtual community, you can search and download just about any file shared by other users. Latest versions support BitTorrent protocol and Shoutcast radio stations. With Ares you can also join chat rooms or host your channel and meet new friends.

Overview:

Ares, a successful P2P application that boasts of having its own decentralized network and a simple, quick access interface. The new version has a very sleek and dark interface, not unlike that of WMP 11. When you start Ares, it lets you auto scan your PC to find files you might like to share on the network. Beginners will be relieved to know that there is no complex configuration process involved. Once Ares is installed, all you need to do is select the search tab and type the name of the file you want to download. Once it appears, double click on it to begin downloading. You’ll be able to check its progress in the transfer tab. The recent update adds bittorrent support, opening Ares up to loads of new content.

Of all the P2P programs, Ares probably features the widest preview screen. You can set it to fit to screen or adjust it to your preference. This is a great way of making sure you’re downloading the right movie or to get a sneak peak at your downloads.

Unlike WinMX or FileNavigator, the two other spin-offs Gnutella projects, Ares did not drop into obscurity and unites a flourishing community of users. However, the same old problems usually seem to arise. According to many Ares users the application suffers from constant connectivity troubles making it difficult to properly search for a file or to successfully complete downloads. Others will worry that Ares is a much smaller network than the globally used Gnutella and does not offer quite as much download sources.

If you enjoy exchanging words with other users, click on the chat tab and connect to one of the thousands of channels available. You can pick up tips on how to use Ares better, ask which files other users recommend or just chit chat about your life in general. You can even insert emoticons into your conversation and keep a list of your favorite chat channels.

Features:

•    Fast multisource downloads: Ares automatically finds more sources and downloads files from many users at once. This can increase remarkably the speed of your downloads.
•    Powerful library organizer: Your shared files are organized into categories in a library section. You can sort your files by type, category and easily change your share settings. An handy quick-search feature locates your files by typing a keyword.
•    Built-in audio/video player: You can preview files while their download is in progress and organize a playlist made of your favourites. Ares supports mouse drag and drop operations, now you can add files or import playlists with just one click.
•    Filesharing chat rooms: You can host your chat room and join other available channels. Creating a chat channel has never been easier, now you can chat and meet new friends while you download files

Pros & Cons:

Pros:

•    Big preview screen
•    Built-in browser
•    Decentralized and quick network
•    Auto-scan your PC for files
Cons:

•    Connectivity problems
•    Fewer sources than Gnutella

OS requirements for Ares:

•    Win98/98SE/Me/2000/XP/7

Bookmark and Share

If you liked my post, feel free to subscribe to my rss feeds

One Trackback

  1. [...] previously known as Integrated Media Player is an internet television service, cable television, P2P and numerous mobile devices developed by the BBC to enhance its existing RealPlayer-based [...]

Post a Comment

Your email is never published nor shared. Required fields are marked *

*
*

© 2009 Software Reviews – Technology News – Free Software Downloads. All Rights Reserved.

This blog is powered by The Globe Tech and Technology Talks.