"Resume" vs re-downloading files

[Ray Darr]

Two simple quests, and a rant:

1) Is there a GREAT program to add to one's system that allows you to "RESUME" a download instead of re-downloading the entire file from the beginning?

For example, Microsoft, bless their hearts, (YES, sarcasm reigns here today...) has so many large files that have to be completely downloaded when dealing with certain updates which are unable to be "opened". If anything that interrupts the download, you are forced to start from the beginning, even if you have 98.9% of the file you are after. Is this acceptable? NO!

2) Why isn't "RESUME" a mandatory selection choice when doing any (EVERY!) download?!

I have seen a few programs that allow you to do this (I'm just not sure which is the best to use...). WHY NOT MAKE IT PART OF THE MICROSOFT plan, Master Gates?!!?!!

Cheers,
Ray Darr
</rant>

[spannersatcx]

You can get dowload resumer software, I used to use a thing called getright many years ago, I expect it is still available. Might be worth a google for 'download resume'

[BOAC]

'GOZILLA' will do it.

[timmcat]

Yep - another heads up for getright. (http://www.getright.com/). Had it for years, saved me many tears when on dialup and I'd get disconnected 90% through downloading a big file.

Or, get Firefox - the facility to resume (providing the server supports it) is built in.

[BRL]

Hi Ray. Carefull with your choice , most are full of spyware......... :yuk:

Or you can use the OPERA (http://www.opera.com) browser, that has a download manager built in that resumes broken downloads. :ok:

[Jhieminga]

I've used Flashget (http://www.regnow.com/softsell/nph-softsell.cgi?item=2903-1&affiliate=41109)a lot in the past, but recently found 'Free download manager (http://www.freedownloadmanager.org/)' which also works a treat.

As a start though I'd second the recommendation for Firefox (http://www.getfirefox.com), it's a great browser that includes download resuming.

Re: BRL's advice, indeed Flashget may include some adware, but Free download manager is clean as far as I know. Firefox is definitively clean of spyware!

[Tinstaafl]

Like BRL, I use Opera. It's download manager works well.

[Mac the Knife]

Getright is the original and best. A "must have" for me 'cos I download a LOT of stuff.

Do yourself and the world a favour and register so as to help Getright keep a free version.

Works nicely with Firefox too, using a plugin.