Avoid breaking the law by downloading the legal way.
Music and videos are downloaded daily on the Internet using peer-to-peer programs. These programs utilize a network to connect users' PCs together. In this way, any type of file can be shared, even those that are illegal. According to the U.S. Copyright Office, "Files distributed over peer-to-peer networks are primarily copyrighted works." Protect yourself by downloading MP3s and MP4s through authorized services.
Instructions
1. Download and install iTunes for Mac and PC. Browse the selection of music and movies or type a specific term in the search bar. Music is downloaded in the MP3 format and the videos are MP4s. You no longer need to buy movies from the iTunes store; they can be rented for a 24-hour period in standard or high definition. You'll have 30 days from the time of rental to begin watching it; the 24-hour timer starts at that point. MP3s can be burned to CDs and other media for a limited number of times.
2. Check Amazon.com's "Digital Download" section on the homepage. Choose either "MP3 Downloads" or "Video on Demand." There are over 12 million songs available as of July, 2010. There are new albums released daily, with some bestselling albums priced below $10. Download MP3s individually for .99 cents, or get the whole albums for a slightly lower price than if buying it at a music store on CD. Video on Demand gives you two options for downloading video. Either download the full video and watch it when it's done, or click "Watch Instantly" to avoid the wait. Videos can be downloaded later, even after choosing Watch Instantly. Watch movies using compatible Set-Top Boxes, DVRs, HDTVs or directly on your computer screen.
3. Sign up for Rhapsody's monthly subscription service to get access to over nine million songs. The convenience that Rhapsody offers stems from the subscription; other MP3 providers charge per song or album. With Rhapsody, you pay one price each month and you can listen to as many songs as you want. It's not worth it if you only want a few songs, but someone who listens to a lot of music will benefit. Save music to the Rhapsody library for quick access to favorites. Rhapsody offers a free trial that offers full functionality for 14 days (as of July, 2010).
Tags: July 2010, million songs, Rhapsody offers, Video Demand, Watch Instantly