This User's Guide provides in depth descriptions of all the features of eDonkey2000.

Introduction
eDonkey2000 is a Hybrid Client. Which means it connects to both the established eDonkey network which has tens of servers located all over the world, and millions of files available. It also connected to the newer advanced eDonkey network, which is a distributed file sharing network.

This means that it will give you the opportunity to share files you have on your computer with other users on the network. And you will be able to download files from them. Clients from around the world connect to each other to form both networks. Through these connections users can search for and download files from any other client on the network.

What makes it different?
There are a lot of file sharing programs out there. eDonkey is a little different from each of them, we like to think a little better. Unlike some networks eDonkey does not have a central server. It is a completely distributed self organizing network.

eDonkey is smart enough to tell the difference between two files even if they have the same file size and name. This has two advantages. Firstly it ensures that unique files are properly presented, and secondly, that when several identical files are found eDonkey can download from those independent sources at the same time, making your downloads faster! This unique file identification also allows you to create links to the files you have. You can then send these links to friends or family put them on your website, etc. Users who have eDonkey installed as well can then download that exact same file from you or any other user who has it!

Community
Every client on the network is linked with every other client, possibly through a variety of intermediate clients. And every byte that one client downloads, must be uploaded by another client on the network. These connections create a community of sorts. Where each member both gives and receives. The more files everyone shares, and the faster they upload, the more files, and the faster everyone will be able to download.

Tip: Many of the functions and options in eDonkey are available by clicking the right mouse button. This will bring up various menus depending on where you clicked.