DC++ Tutorial How to Set Up

DC++ Tutorial: How to Set Up a Client, Join Hubs, Upload, and Download Files

1. What is DC++?
DC++ (Direct Connect Plus Plus) is an open-source client for the Direct Connect (DC) network, allowing users to share files directly with other users in hubs (chat rooms). It's peer-to-peer (P2P), meaning you download and upload files directly from/to other users.

Key terms:

• Hub: A chat room/server where users connect to share files.
• Nick: Your username on the hub.
• Queue: A waiting list to download from another user.
• Share: The files or folders you make available for others.

2. Downloading and Installing DC++

• AirDC
• ApexDC
• DC++
• GreyLinkDC
• FlylinkDC
• FearDC
• StrongDC
• oDC 5.31

• Linux DC++ Client [Linux]

Download the latest stable version for your operating system (Windows, Linux, etc.).

Install DC++:

• Run the installer.
• Choose a language.
• Accept the license agreement.
• Choose installation folder (default is fine).
• Finish the installation.

3. First Launch and Basic Setup

1. Open DC++ after installation.
2. You’ll see the “Settings Wizard” (or you can manually configure via Settings).
3. Set your Nickname and Description:

• Nickname: The name visible to others.
• Description: A short message or info about you (optional).

4. Set your share folders:

• Go to Settings → Sharing → Add.
• Select folders that you want to share.
• Important: Only share folders you are comfortable making public.

5. Configure slots (upload limits):

• Settings → Slots
• Default is usually 1-3 uploads at a time.
• Higher slots → more people can download from you simultaneously, but higher bandwidth use.

6.Set download folder:

• Settings → Downloads → Save files in
• Choose a folder where all downloaded files will go.

4. Connecting to a Hub
A hub is a place where you meet other users to share files.

1. Go to Favorites → Hub List → Add Hub.
2. Enter the hub address, for example:

• 411 is the default hub port.
• Some hubs require registration or a password.

3. Click Connect.
4. After connecting:

• You can see users online.
• You can chat in the hub.
• You can browse the hub’s shared files (if the hub allows it).

5. Searching for Files
1. Go to Search → Search Files.
2. Enter the file name or keywords.
3. Select:

• Hub or Global search (search all hubs you are connected to).

4. Press Search.
5. Results will appear with:

• Nick: who has the file.
• Size: file size.
• Hub: the hub the user is in.
• Type: file type (e.g., archive, media).

6. Downloading Files
1. Right-click the file → Download.
2. If the user has multiple download slots, your download may start immediately. Otherwise, you go into queue.
3. Check Transfers → Downloads to see progress.
4. When done, files appear in your download folder.

7. Uploading and Sharing Files
1. Ensure your share folders are set (Settings → Sharing).
2. Users in hubs can browse your shared files.
3. If someone requests a file:

• If you have a free upload slot, the transfer begins immediately.
• Otherwise, they enter queue.

4. Monitor uploads via Transfers → Uploads.

8. Advanced Tips
Active vs Passive Mode:

• Active mode: Direct downloads without problems, but requires router configuration (port forwarding).
• Passive mode: Works behind NAT/firewall, but some users can’t download from you.
• Settings → Connection → Set your TCP/UDP port (e.g., 1412).

Download limits:

• Avoid setting unlimited downloads if you have slow bandwidth.

Hubs etiquette:

• Don’t spam.
• Share enough files to maintain a good share ratio.
• Some hubs have minimum share requirements.

Security:

• Only share non-sensitive folders.
• Scan downloaded files for malware.

9. Summary Workflow

1. Install DC++.
2. Set nickname and share folders.
3. Connect to hubs.
4. Search for files or browse users’ shared content.
5. Download files → monitor in Downloads.
6. Upload files → monitor in Uploads.
7. Follow hub rules and maintain good sharing habits.