Uploading a download link?

[Pingonaut]

So I've made a set of textures for TextureReplacer, how do I link it? The most convenient way to download a mod (from what I've seen) is when the mod creator posts a link and it goes straight to your computer, what are they doing to do that? The only thing I've figured out how to do is upload it on Google Drive or whatever it's called, then give out that link, but there are a lot more steps involved for the downloader.

Basically, how do I make a direct download link?

Edited July 30, 2014 by Pingonaut

[nli2work]

google drive; mediafire; curseforge; kerbalstuff

[Pingonaut]

google drive; mediafire; curseforge; kerbalstuff

But how do you link it to download without going to that site?

[nli2work]

Hotlinking is generally frowned up on.

[Pingonaut]

Hotlinking is generally frowned up on.

Clearly not, almost all mods have that, unless I'm using the incorrect term. Dropbox link is what it usually says, and it starts the download immediately.

[nli2work]

hotlink is when you link directly to a file without going to the host's download page/site. Makes it appear as if your website is hosting the content when it isn't. It's bandwidth stealing.

Google drive; Mediafire; Curse; all prevent that by providing an URL that redirects downloader to their site first, after that download may automatically begin or not.

[Alshain]

Clearly not, almost all mods have that, unless I'm using the incorrect term. Dropbox link is what it usually says, and it starts the download immediately.

Dropbox is a service that allows hotlinking, sort of. Your still going to their page but it automatically starts the download. You just have to go to Dropbox.com and create an account. Optionally you can install their PC client and drop the file straight into a folder on your computer and it auto-uploads too.

[Pingonaut]

hotlink is when you link directly to a file without going to the host's download page/site. Makes it appear as if your website is hosting the content when it isn't. It's bandwidth stealing.

Google drive; Mediafire; Curse; all prevent that by providing an URL that redirects downloader to their site first, after that download may automatically begin or not.

I don't really understand, then. What's the site people use when it just sends it to your downloads when clicking on the link? I've always loved those, as they're easy.

If that's not good, what's most preferred? I just tried Curse and it's terrible, I can't deal with it.

Dropbox is a service that allows hotlinking, sort of. Your still going to their page but it automatically starts the download.

Okay, how do I upload to Dropbox? This is the one I'm thinking of.

[Alshain]

Okay, how do I upload to Dropbox? This is the one I'm thinking of.

You beat me on the edit. Go to Dropbox.com and make an account. Upload from there or download the PC App.

[Pingonaut]

You beat me on the edit. Go to Dropbox.com and make an account. Upload from there or download the PC App.

Got it. Thanks!