What does it mean to upload a file to a website or download something from the web?
What’s the difference between a download and an upload?
These are basic terms that any web user should understand.
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What Does It Mean to Upload Something?
In the context of the web,upload = send.
Think of it like loading the data “upward” to the internet.
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When you upload a file somewhere, it’s only a copy that gets transferred.
The original is still available on your machine.
What Does It Mean to Download Something?
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In opposition to upload,download = save.
All sorts of information can be downloaded from the web: books, movies, software, etc.
For a more concrete example, think about an email.
You’re uploading pictures to an email server when you send someone photos over an email.
If you save picture attachments from someone who emailed you, you’re downloading them to your unit.
It’s Important to Know the Difference
Uploads and downloads happen all the time in the background.
Safety is another reason knowing the differences matters.
see to it you knowhow to safely download and install softwareif you’re downloading lots of programs.
What About Streaming?
They’re similar, but not technically the same, and there are benefits of both.
you might stream Netflix shows on your tablet without needing to download the full episode first.
However, the file isn’t usable offline because it isn’t stored for future use.
There arenetwork protocolsthat support data uploads and downloads.
One is FTP, which utilizes FTP servers and clients to send and receive data between devices.
Another isHTTP, which is the protocol used when you send and receive data through your web surfing app.
The short answer for why your download speed is faster than your upload speed is due to demand.
If your ISP delivers symmetrical speeds, then youdohave equal download and upload speeds.
SeeUnderstanding Broadband Internet Speedsfor more on what determines internet speed.
