FlashGet
FlashGet is a freeware download manager software primarily designed for Microsoft Windows, developed by FlashGet Network to accelerate and manage file downloads efficiently using its proprietary MHT (Multi-server Hyper-threading Transportation) technique, which splits files into segments for simultaneous retrieval from multiple servers, potentially increasing speeds by up to 6-10 times compared to standard browsers.[1][2] Originally released in the early 2000s by Amaze Software Co., FlashGet gained popularity for its ability to resume interrupted downloads and optimize bandwidth usage with minimal impact on system resources, making it a preferred tool for users handling large files or multiple simultaneous transfers.[3][4] The software supports a wide range of protocols, including HTTP, FTP, BitTorrent (BT), MMS, RTSP, and eMule, enabling seamless switching between them without manual intervention, and features robust file organization tools such as unlimited custom categories, drag-and-drop functionality, and integrated search capabilities.[2][5] In addition to core downloading functions, FlashGet incorporates security measures like automatic post-download scanning with antivirus software to detect viruses, spyware, and adware, ensuring clean file handling, and it remains ad-free in its standard version while offering low CPU and memory consumption for smooth multitasking.[2] Over time, FlashGet has evolved to include extensions for browsers like Chrome, facilitating one-click integration, and the company has expanded its portfolio with related products such as FlashGet Cast for screen mirroring and FlashGet Kids for parental controls, though the classic download manager (version 1.73) continues to be available alongside modern updates.[1][6]History
Origins and early development
FlashGet originated as a download management tool developed in China by Hou Yantang under Amazesoft, initially released under the name JetCar, the English translation of its Chinese name 网际快车 (Wǎngjì Kuàichē), meaning "internet express train." The software was created to address the challenges of slow internet connections prevalent in the late 1990s, particularly in regions with emerging broadband infrastructure. Its core innovation involved multi-threaded downloading, allowing files to be split into segments and retrieved simultaneously from multiple server connections to accelerate transfer speeds.[7] The earliest documented version, JetCar 0.64, was released on June 20, 1999. This initial release introduced basic features such as drop-zone tooltips for easy file capture and sortable list views for managing downloads, along with fixes for common bugs like incomplete file handling. Subsequent updates in 1999 enhanced functionality, such as JetCar 0.69 on August 25, 1999, which added a find feature, batch downloads, and save settings options; and JetCar 0.74a on December 16, 1999, which improved categorization by automatically organizing files into directories based on download sources and enhanced integration with external tools for adding files mid-process. These early iterations established JetCar as a lightweight, resource-efficient application suitable for Windows systems, focusing on reliability and speed without overwhelming system resources.[7] In early 2000, the software underwent a rebranding to FlashGet, starting with version 0.76 released on February 6, 2000. This transition coincided with expanded functionality, including better support for HTTP and FTP protocols and initial browser integrations to capture links directly from Internet Explorer and Netscape. The rename reflected growing popularity and a shift toward broader market appeal, with FlashGet maintaining its freeware model—offering both ad-free paid options and ad-supported versions that included browser helper objects for seamless operation. By version 0.90 in October 2000, features like a Site Explorer for previewing remote directories and fixes for zip file integrity were added, solidifying its role as a go-to tool for efficient file management during the dial-up era.[7][8]Version history and major updates
The rebranding marked a shift toward broader internationalization, including localization support and improved browser compatibility, particularly with Internet Explorer and Opera. Major updates in the 0.x series introduced key functionalities such as mirror site searching (version 0.85, April 8, 2000), site explorer for navigating download sources (version 0.90, October 18, 2000), and download rules for automated management (version 0.96, June 14, 2001). By version 1.00 on December 13, 2001, FlashGet added SOCKS proxy support and adjustable split parts for downloads, solidifying its role as a versatile tool for managing large files.[7][8]| Version | Release Date | Major Updates |
|---|---|---|
| JetCar 0.69 | August 25, 1999 | Introduced find feature, batch downloads, and save settings options. |
| JetCar 0.72 | October 25, 1999 | Added HTML analysis for multiple links and enhanced browser monitoring. |
| FlashGet 0.85 | April 8, 2000 | Implemented mirror site search and automatic URL addition. |
| FlashGet 0.90 | October 18, 2000 | Added Site Explorer and ZIP file repair tools. |
| FlashGet 1.00 | December 13, 2001 | Supported SOCKS4/5 proxies and percent progress in Drop Zone. |
| FlashGet 1.2 | March 18, 2002 | Introduced shareware model, ShareURL service, and skin support. |
| FlashGet 1.40 | November 2002 | Added HTTPS support and skin designer tool. |
| FlashGet 1.50 | February 2004 | Included MMS protocol and command-line integration. |
| FlashGet 1.60 | April 2004 | Added RTSP protocol support. |
| FlashGet 1.73 | September 2006 | Enabled SWF file downloads and integrated search toolbar. |
| FlashGet 1.80 | December 2006 | Introduced BitTorrent support, Vista compatibility, and redesigned UI. |
| FlashGet 1.81 | January 15, 2007 | Optimized downloads near completion and added BT encryption. |
| FlashGet 1.9.6 | September 25, 2007 | Added "FlashGet Recommends" feature and BT module optimizations. |