14 DAY TRIAL // One of the best alternatives to the Napster client, LimeWire, has recently been released under the form of a new beta, adding a new user interface that has been rewritten from scratch. Additional components have been added to the free software.
Limewire is a free peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing client, which uses the Java platform to locate files as well as share files. It is one of the only P2P file sharing solutions of its kind for the Mac. Touted as the fastest, easiest, most advanced file sharing program of its kind, LimeWire is compatible with all major platforms and running over the Gnutella network.
The software boasts iTunes integration on both Mac and Windows platforms, as well as a browse-host feature, which works even through firewalls. It connects to the network using GWebCache, a distributed connection system.
Besides slapping a new UI on the client that uses “ultrapeer” technology, the folks at Gnutella network have also included support for Jabber (XMPP) protocol. “This means that LimeWire can sign-on to your favorite Jabber service, and it will detect other friends of yours that are also signed on,” the developers say. Also, new to this version is the ability to share files directly with other users. Results from your friends are displayed above other search results, when you perform a search.
LimeWire's open source code is freely available to the public, and developed in part by a devoted programmer community. It is available in multiple languages, in both free and paid versions. The Basic version is free, while LimeWire Pro can be acquired for $21.95. LimeWire Pro is an enhanced version with personalized technical support.
LimeWire requirements call for Mac OS X 10.4 or later, 256 MB RAM, a live connection to the Internet, and Java 1.5 or later. Use the link below to download LimeWire 5.0.4 X Beta, or the latest stable version of the file sharing utility. Download LimeWire X (Free)