File-sharing software has developed a bad reputation over the years, in part because so much of it comes riddled with adware or spyware. To make matters worse, many file-sharing programs put little effort into helping you find particular files--and when you do find them, downloads can take a long time.
That's why, when it comes to sharing files, your best bet these days is software that uses the BitTorrent protocol. With BitTorrent, you download bits and pieces of each file from multiple locations, which speeds up the process.
But while the BitTorrent protocol is quite useful, the BitTorrent client is less so. Instead of relying on it, try Torrent Swapper. This free, open-source software is superb at helping you find the files you want, and then downloading them. You can start and stop downloads, change the priority of files on your download list, set download speeds, and much more.
Where this program really shines, though, is in its social networking features. It allows you to download files that friends and acquaintances have downloaded--just press a button, and you'll see the list. In addition, you can recommend files to others and rate files.
If you've given up on file sharing because the process was too painful, try it again; with Torrent Swapper it might seem worthwhile again.
If you run a firewall on your PC, it may ask you whether it should permit Torrent Swapper to access the Internet. Be sure to give your approval; otherwise, the program won't work.