What is a .NZB file?
An NZB file is a type of XML file specifically used for retrieving posts from Usenet servers, which are part of a global discussion network where users can read and post messages in different groups. Similar to how .TORRENT files work for BitTorrent, an NZB file does not contain the actual content but rather the information needed to find and download the content from Usenet. This information includes details like the unique identifier of the post, the name of the person who posted it, the groups where the post was shared, and the names and segments of the files included in the post.
Usenet is popular for distributing a wide variety of files, including media files, through posts in its newsgroups. The NZB file format was created by Newzbin.com to make it easier to locate and download these binary posts. When a post is made up of multiple parts or segments, the NZB file includes details about each segment and the sequence in which they should be combined after downloading.
To use an NZB file, you need a Usenet client, which is a special software that can read NZB files and manage the download of the posts they refer to. Some of the programs that can open NZB files include SABnzbd, NZBGet, and NewsBin Pro, among others. These programs help automate the process of downloading the split segments of a Usenet post and assembling them correctly once all parts are downloaded.
For example, if you have an NZB file, you can open it with a program like SABnzbd. This program will then use the information in the NZB file to download the necessary files from the Usenet servers. After the download is complete, the program will piece together the segments if needed, resulting in the final file that was originally posted to Usenet.
In summary, NZB files simplify the process of downloading complex or multi-part files from Usenet by providing all the necessary metadata to locate and retrieve the files efficiently.
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