The latest release of the libtorrent 2.1 library is now available. This library provides an implementation of the BitTorrent protocol that focuses on low memory consumption and efficient CPU resource utilization. It is a crucial component in various torrent clients such as Deluge, qBittorrent, Folx, Lince, Miro, Flush, and Free Download Manager, as well as in some network storages. Written in C++, the libtorrent code is openly distributed under the BSD license.
The latest version of libtorrent now includes built-in support for the WebTorrent protocol. This new feature enhances the BitTorrent protocol by enabling the creation of decentralized content distribution networks that can connect through web browsers of users accessing content. Website administrators can integrate a special JavaScript code on their sites, leveraging WebRTC technology for direct data exchange among browsers to form a unified content delivery network.
With WebTorrent integration in libtorrent, users can now engage in content distribution through both traditional torrent clients and web browsers, facilitating hybrid networks that merge both BitTorrent and WebTorrent functionalities. Torrent clients based on libtorrent can connect with WebTorrent peers in browsers, such as those involved in file sharing via instant.io. Similarly, WebTorrent browser clients can access torrents distributed by BitTorrent peers over TCP/UDP through desktop clients.
Aside from WebTorrent support, libtorrent 2.1 introduces a new input/output backend called pread_disk_io, utilizing functions like pwritev and preadv for atomic writing and reading of data across multiple buffers. This new backend is optimized for disk drives, network attached storage, and file systems mounted via FUSE. The