TUCOWS to Deliver Ads During Downloads

Software distribution company TUCOWS signed to use SmartDownload from Atlanta-based Software Builders International, allowing an advertising pipeline to users while they download.

TUCOWS will use SmartDownload to manage downloads from its own Web site and about 900 mirror sites.

TUCOWS helps computer users select and buy software, and/or evaluate software before they buy. It hosts millions of downloads per month. SmartDownload’s pause, resume and reconnect features will insure TUCOWS’ customers download successfully on the first attempt, the companies said. Financial arrangements were not disclosed.

Using SmartDownload’s 550×300-information window, custom branded buttons and banner space, TUCOWS can deliver targeted messages to millions of users, at a time when they are captive and open to communication, the company said.

“When you host millions of downloads per month, you have to do everything in your power to alleviate failed downloads, and we believe SmartDownload is the best choice for us,” said Ross Rader, director of electronic commerce for TUCOWS. “Our users will appreciate, as do we, SmartDownload’s features, especially its reconnect feature that allows a user to continue a failed download at the point of interruption once back online.”

SmartDownload installs automatically at the beginning of the download process and remains on the users PC to manage all future downloads. It allows users to pause downloads and continue later from the point of interruption.

“The value offered by our SmartPartner program not only delivers a better user experience but it creates a brand new revenue stream for download sites and Internet portals,” said Phil Hill, vice president of marketing for Software Builders International.