isoHunt

isoHunt was a popular peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing website and torrent index. It allowed users to search for, download, and upload torrent files, which contained metadata used by BitTorrent clients to facilitate the transfer of files between users on a distributed network.

Founded by Gary Fung in January 2003, isoHunt quickly grew to become one of the largest torrent search engines on the internet, indexing millions of torrents and attracting a significant user base. The site facilitated the sharing of a wide range of content, including software, movies, music, and games.

Due to the nature of torrent technology and the content often shared through torrents, isoHunt faced numerous legal challenges from copyright holders and industry groups. These groups alleged that isoHunt facilitated copyright infringement on a massive scale.

In October 2010, the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) filed a lawsuit against isoHunt, alleging copyright infringement. After several years of legal battles, Fung reached a settlement with the MPAA in October 2013. As part of the settlement, isoHunt was shut down, and Fung agreed to pay a substantial financial penalty. The original isoHunt website ceased operations shortly after the settlement.

Despite the closure of the original site, the name and concept of isoHunt have persisted. Several mirror and successor sites have emerged, attempting to replicate the functionality of the original isoHunt. However, none have achieved the same level of prominence or popularity as the original. The legacy of isoHunt remains significant in the history of P2P file sharing and the ongoing debates surrounding copyright and digital content distribution.