WinMX Free Music Download

From LoveToKnow Music

WinMX is a Windows-based peer-to-peer file-sharing network that boasts a decentralized and spyware-free source of data. Although the official site has been offline since September 2005 (due to the threat of litigation), there are backdoor entrances to the original network.

Disclaimer

Although WinMX and other P2P programs are not illegal, downloading and sharing copywritten material is. LoveToKnow does not condone the use of P2P programs for illegal purposes. Please use these programs responsibly and share only Free Music and other freely-distributable media. Learn more about Downloading Legal Music.

The History of WinMX

WinMX began in the heyday of Napster’s reign as the number one, free file-sharing network. However, as Napster was overcrowded and starting to get itself into trouble, WinMX was a refreshing alternative. Things were running a bit faster and a bit more incognito for WinMX, as it was merely an OpenNap client (OpenNap is a freeware program that replicates the Napster operation.) However, the demise of Napster would send a ripple effect through other peer-to-peer networks and the Powers That Be would soon take their copyright lawsuits to OpenNap, as well.

Originally, WinMX was one of the few alternatives to Napster and until September 2005, it was the oldest free file-sharing network around. While Napster would eventually become part of the system it was opposing, WinMX fought hard and succeeded several times before officially closing its doors. Users of the site remained loyal and the site itself had many perks. Among others, it boasted a spyware-free program (something LimeWire users can’t really count on). Also, it had multi-sourced download locations, which made the speed fast and usually problem-free. Another draw to the site was the chatrooms and sense of community it harvested.

The Wolves Close In

Once Napster fell, many peer-to-peer sites suffered, as well. Napster was certainly the king and many users counted on the site to get their data. Once Napster was stopped from being a candy store to white-collar pirates, all of its little offshoots would see a decline in file availability. At WinMX, more people were downloading than uploading and before long, there were even lines for people to wait in. As more people became more about taking and less about sharing, other sites were springing up. Many of these competing sites were more technically advanced and offered more customization to seasoned users. Between pending lawsuits and users leaving in droves to places like Kazaa and LimeWire, WinMX decided to call it quits after a very brave run of things.

Visiting WinMX Today

Currently, the official and original site brings only an error message to your screen. However, it is still possible to use the original network of files by downloading a software patch here. Former users that found flaws in the original system will be happy to know that the newest patch available has made some improvement. As of now, loyal users are still keeping the memory alive, although it is uncertain how long this resurrection will last. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) was successful in ceasing the original site and it seems they aren’t ready to quit the battle.