The Filecloud Server
Introduction
In April 2006 I joined force with Filecloud to distribute my unique file archive. Up until this date I had had a difficult time with downloads and decided to reorganize how I served my files.
The purpose of this post is to explain some of the useful features and to highlight different ways to interact with the file archive.
Why I chose Filecloud
There were many things to consider when I chose a file distribution partner; download speeds, queues, server locations, admin interface etc etc. I feel that Filecloud has all the benefits of other download sites but many unique advantages. Not least being the ability to upload and administer files quickly and easily.
Those of you who have been visiting PlanetPhillip for a while will probably know I have tried quite a few file providers but none were as helpful and flexible as Filecloud when it came to uploading the files. If I had stayed with my previous provider it would have taken over a year to upload the files. Currently I have approximately 95% available. Not bad for less than a week’s work.
By choosing Filecloud it means that you, the reader, can download almost any file NOW, not in one month’s or six month’s time but NOW! That was very important to me.
Direct Links
There should be a direct link to the file in every Single Player Map and Mod post. However there will definitely be some errors and editing nearly 2000 files takes quite some time. If the direct link provided does not work, and I apologise in advance for that, then you will find an image at the post of the post that will take you to the homepage of the files archive. See below for more information.
Search the Archive
The search box is near the top of the page and currently searches the whole of Filecloud’s archive. It may be possible to limit the search to the PlanetPhillip archive in the future. Although it wouldn’t be a problem to search everything, would it?
Can’t Find a File!
In these rare cases, simply email me the details and I will upload it ASAP.
Latest Files
The sidebar of PlanetPhillip provides a real-time update of the latest files added to my archive. Each link takes you to the file download itself, not the PlanetPhillip entry.
File Name and Descriptions
I am slowly editing each file to include a readable file name and a brief description of the file, along with a link back to PlanetPhillip where you will be able to find more details and leave comments.
RSS Feeds
For those who do not know what RSS Feeds are I suggest a quick visit to Wikipedia to learn more about them. Put simply: The information is sent to you rather than you having to go and get it.
There are various ways to use the feed. Firstly you could use a normal Reader application. I’m testing the Google version and have to say I’m very impressed with it.
Secondly if you use FireFox then you can use the Live Bookmark feature. Other browsers may have a similar feature.
MD5 Hash
In this context the MD5 Hash is primarily used to ensure that your download is exactly the same as the file on the server. If you have any problems with a file being incorrupt etc, then simply use an application to create an MD5 hash and compare it to the one displayed for the file. I found Hash Calc is quite good but will happily add links to other applications if readers know of them.
Searching For Files
I get quite a few emails and comments from readers saying they can’t find the files they are looking for. So far, every time I have serached I have found the required file and I thought I would post this guide to help other users.
 Firstly go to the main PlanetPhillip Filecloud page. |
 Now click the Search button. |
 Now click the SEARCH WITHIN dropdown box and select USER LIBRARY. Type in the name of the file and press |
 This should now produce a list of results. Normally you will find the file at the top but be sure to look down the list if the file name is generic. In my example I included the “.zip” part but that is not needed. |
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