Is Torrenting Illegal? Downloading Files Without Your ISP Knowing in 2026

If you’ve ever wondered “is torrenting illegal?,” you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn how the technology works, why it has such a sketchy reputation and finally how you can protect yourself while torrenting.

By Aleksander Hougen — 04 Feb'23 Last Updated: 20 Jun'26
Facts checked by Jasna Mishevska

What is Torrenting? Everything You Need to Know in 2026

Mostly known as a way to download copyrighted material, torrenting has always been front and center in the internet piracy debate. So what is torrenting, really? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the infamous file-sharing protocol.

By Aleksander Hougen — 30 Nov'22 Last Updated: 19 Jul'26
Facts checked by Vildana Bratic