# Software & Downloads

How to host and distribute software, documents, archives, and anything else that's downloaded rather than streamed.

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## What This Covers

Anything fans download as a file rather than play in-browser:

- Software builds (DMG, EXE, AppImage, ZIP, TAR)
- Documents (PDF, EPUB, comics)
- Source code archives
- Sample packs, presets, project files
- Anything else uploaded that isn't audio or video

Audio and video have dedicated pages: [Audio Hosting](./audio.md), [Video Hosting](./video.md).

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## Supported Formats

Any file type is accepted. Files are stored as-is: no transcoding, no transformation.

The platform applies content scanning (YARA rules, malware feeds) on every upload. Files flagged by the scanner are held pending review rather than published.

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## File Limits

Per-file size limits depend on your [pricing tier](./tiers.md): {{ tier_limits.basic_per_file }} (Basic), {{ tier_limits.small_files_per_file }} (Small Files), {{ tier_limits.big_files_per_file }} (Big Files and Everything).

Software builds tend to need Big Files or Everything.

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## Upload Process

1. Drag the file onto the upload area (or click to browse)
2. Upload runs with a progress indicator
3. Add metadata while uploading or after
4. Set tags, pricing, visibility
5. Save as draft or publish immediately

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## Versions

Use [versions](./items.md#versions) to ship updates without forcing fans to re-purchase. Each version keeps its own file; fans download whichever they want.

For platform builds (macOS / Windows / Linux), upload each as a separate version with a clear name (e.g. *"1.4.2 (macOS arm64)"*).

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## License Keys

For paid software, generate [license keys](../developer/license-keys.md) per purchase. Keys are issued on purchase and visible in the fan's library next to the download link.

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## OTA Updates

For Tauri and similar desktop apps, the platform exposes an [OTA update endpoint](../developer/ota.md) that your app can poll for new versions. Signed manifest, signature sidecar per build.

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## Downloads

Fans who purchase the item or subscribe to a tier can download the file directly. No DRM, no device tracking, no per-download fees. Re-downloads allowed anytime.

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## See Also

- [Audio Hosting](./audio.md)
- [Video Hosting](./video.md)
- [Items](./items.md): organizing items and projects
- [License Keys](../developer/license-keys.md): per-purchase keys for paid software
- [OTA Updates](../developer/ota.md): in-app update polling