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As a software developers business grows they
need to make some decisions regarding file hosting.
The last thing a developers wants or needs is
to have potential customers who wants to download,
but are unable to.
Many developers who are leery of relying on a
third party, rely on file redirects to direct
downloaders to the files on a third party host.
In other words, all the file download links posted
on software sites point to the developer's website.
The developer redirects users to their third party
hosting service, so that they have control and
can change the links should the need arrise. Regardless
of who you use for file hosting, you can control
the files with file redirects.
Dedicated Server Options
Some developers have found that because of their
download volume they require a dedicated server.
Developers can purchase a managed server or an
unmanaged server, which they will need to administer.
3rd Party Host
Benefits to using a 3rd Party Hosting Service
Protection
If you offer a full registered version you will
want to restrict access. Download file access
can be restricted by country, IP address, warez
websites, or a custom URL.
Download Speed Matters
Files should download in a fashion and manner
that is timely. Using a load balanced 3rd party
will maintain fast download speeds.
Warez Site Protection
Filter websites that can access your download
based on IP address, domain, or other defined
criteria.
Reporting
Graphical reporting that assists you in determining
where you get the most for your money.
Typical reports include:
- Number of Unique Downloads Over a Specified
Period of Time
- Top Referring Websites
- Top Referring Websites by Sales
- Number of Blocked Downloads
- Top Blocked Referring Websites
- Number of Completed Downloads
- Bandwidth Usage
- Region Bandwidth
- Time to Purchase
Unique Download URLs
Third party web hosts can dynamically create
unique download URLs.
Password Protected Files
Developers can password protect software
downloads, providing limited access for a set
amount of time, or a set number of downloads.
Suggested 3rd Party File Host - FileKicker
FileKicker is set up specifically for software
developers and it has a number of advanced features
and functions.
http://www.filekicker.com
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