Because BitTorrent is a peer-to-peer communications protocol that does not need a server, the BitTorrent definition of client differs from the conventional meaning expressed in the client–server model. A BitTorrent client enables a user to exchange data as a peer in one or more swarms. The BitTorrent protocol coordinates segmented file transfer among peers connected in a swarm. The following is a general comparison of BitTorrent clients, which are computer programs designed for peer-to-peer file sharing using the BitTorrent protocol.
For the software application by Bram Cohen, see BitTorrent (software).