BitTorrent

A peer-to-peer protocol that decentralizes file distribution to maximize bandwidth efficiency and transfer speeds.

BitTorrent revolutionized data transfer in 2001 by shifting the load from central servers to a distributed swarm of users. By breaking files into small fragments and allowing peers to upload and download simultaneously, the protocol eliminates bottlenecks for large-scale distribution. It currently accounts for a significant portion of global upstream traffic (often exceeding 20 percent in specific regions) and supports massive open-source deployments like Linux ISOs and Blizzard Entertainment game updates. The system remains the industry standard for resilient, cost-effective content delivery at scale.

https://www.bittorrent.com