Cross Platform ~ 2GB to download files

Question

I am looking for technology that can be used to download large (~ 2 GB) files from Windows and Mac OSX computers. It should be possible to pause and resume the download on request / error. The final artifact should be easily installed by the user with basic computer skills.

I think about using Adobe AIR because it is pretty ubiquitous, so installation should be easy, although I'm not sure that AIR will provide the power we use. Another option would be a Java application, which, in my opinion, will provide a wider choice in terms of protocol loading (HTTP / WebDAV / etc).

Does AIR have the ability to handle such large file sizes and can it pause and resume? Would Java be better since I can more easily crop files? Is there any other solution that I haven't thought about? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

Please do not offer to use a service such as YouSendIt, DropBox, etc. I need a special, proprietary solution that can be integrated with the CMS for downloaded files.

Thanks!

Darren.

Answer 1

You can use the Apache FileUpload library, in which I tested downloading about 4 gigabytes, and it had no problems.

If you want more control, I would recommend an applet - more control, and you still have the advantage that you do not need to install it on a client computer.