
The Direct Connect protocol is a text-based computer protocol, in which commands and their information are sent in clear text, without encryption in original NeoModus software ( encryption is available as a protocol extension). The DCDev archive contains discussions of protocol changes for development of DC in the years 2003–2005. Later on, other clients such as DCTC (Direct Connect Text Client) and DC++ became popular. Open Direct Connect also did not have complete support for the full file sharing aspects of the protocol, but a port to Java, however, did.

Some time after, DClite was rewritten as Open Direct Connect with the purpose of having an MDI user interface and using plug-ins for file sharing protocols (similar to MLDonkey). The encryption key was cracked, and the author of DClite released a new version of DClite compatible with the new software from NeoModus. Hess released a new version of Direct Connect, requiring a simple encryption key to initiate a connection, locking out third-party clients.

The first third-party client was called "DClite", which never fully supported the file sharing aspects of the protocol. NeoModus was started as a company funded by the adware "Direct Connect" by Jon Hess in November, 1999 while he was in high school. Users can search for files and download them from other clients, as well as chat with other users. Hubs feature a list of clients or users connected to them. Advanced Direct Connect can be considered a successor protocol. Direct Connect clients connect to a central hub and can download files directly from one another.


DC++ wastes less memory, is faster, file size is smaller and long queue won't freeze the whole program. Firewall and router support is integrated and it is easy and convenient to use functionality like multi-hub connections, auto-connections and resuming of downloads.ĭC++ offers these improvements over its predecessors: The client is completely free of advertisements and has a nice, easy to use interface. Direct Connect allows you to share files over the Internet without restrictions or limits. DC++ is an open source client for Windows for the Direct Connect network.
