ApexDC++ 1.6.5

Overview

From the name itself you may have guessed that ApexDC++ is a client that connects to the Direct Connect peer-to-peer file sharing network. Recently, it has become one of the more popular clients on that network, and considering the growing popularity of Direct Connect – it must be doing something right.

Installation

Despite being easy to install, there are two areas that you’ll want to keep an eye on during the process. First, you’ll get to select the components that you want to include in the installation - where you can opt whether or not you’d like the emoticon packs and the GeoIP database. If you’re unsure or have no definite preference, it is recommended that you just install both.

Next, be sure to notice the option to install the free trial version of Tuneup Utilities 2013, which is supposed to help detect and fix Windows issues, but isn’t compulsory.

Apex DC++ supports installation on Windows 2000, XP, Vista, and 7 (including the 64-bit versions of those operating systems).

Interface

The interface of ApexDC++ is very similar other Direct Connect network clients out there. For users new to such clients it may be a little bit daunting at first, but experienced users will find everything very familiar.

The main content box occupies the bulk of the screen, but there is a lower section to track connections to other users. By default the content tabs are all located right at the bottom of the screen.

Long story short, the interface is functional but doesn’t really have much in terms of aesthetics. Still, it must be noted that it is very customizable and provides ample options to do so.

Pros

ApexDC++ comes with a host of features that Direct Connect network users will find useful such as segmented downloading, an upload/download speed limiter, preloaded access to public hub lists, as well as encryption for downloaded data. That being said, most of these features are present on other Direct Connect clients as well.

What distinguishes ApexDC++ from its competitors is its:

• Ability to connect to DHT. Some hubs on the Direct Connect network frown on DHT connections, but it is nice to have the option nonetheless.

• Support for LUA and C++ plugins. Thanks to the vibrant developer community that works on ApexDC++, you’ll find plugins that range from media players to spam filters.

Apart from that, the only other difference between ApexDC++ and other clients is its appearance.

Cons

There are no real disadvantages in ApexDC++, with the only exception possibly being its lack of polish and aesthetics.

Alternatives

Most of the alternatives for ApexDC++ consist of other Direct Connect network clients such as the original DC++, or StrongDC++. Considering ApexDC++ is based on StrongDC++ which in turn is based on DC++, all are definitely very similar in nature and it is really a question of preference.

Conclusion

Considering just how alike Direct Connect clients are to one another, there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ choice to make. It is up to each user to try out the different options and figure out which one they like. On the part of ApexDC++ - its additional features do make it stand out; at least a little bit.