How Do You Download MP3 Files?

by Arlen Hershey
Downloading an MP3 is only possible with an Internet connection.

Downloading an MP3 is only possible with an Internet connection.

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An MP3 is a specific type of digital file for audio. It is typically used for music, but any sort of sound file may be downloaded as an MP3. The downloading process of an MP3 file is moderately easy, but must be conducted through legal means. Downloading occurs over the Internet, when an MP3 is acquired from a host source like a website or an online music store. Once downloaded, MP3s may be listened to on music-playing software on a computer or transferred to a portable MP3 player.

Step 1

Go online to a site that has MP3s available to download. There are some online stores that focus solely on digital music files (iTunes, Emusic, Lala, etc.), and these songs may be purchased at a small cost; generally no more than $1 per song. Find a song you want to download, and make sure you have a credit or debit card handy for payment information.

Step 2

Once you find the song to download, you must click on it to purchase it. Before the download begins, you must go through a step-by-step process of giving the site your payment information. Some sites accept PayPal, but real names and details must be provided or you will not be able to purchase an MP3. Once you've completed the payment process, a download will automatically begin. The download for most songs will finish in less than two minutes on a high-speed connection.

Step 3

Avoid opening other windows while downloading if possible, because this could cause an error in the process. When the download finishes, it can be played from a music player on your computer. The track will be on your computer's hard drive, and may be listened to as many times as you'd like.

Tip

  • Sometimes a record label's or artist's official website will make MP3 singles available for free download. Always check there before purchasing a desired track from an online store.

Warning

  • Downloading MP3s can be illegal. If you come across a blog or Web forum that offers entire albums free of any cost, it's likely that the site is doing so illegally. Illegally downloading music is punishable by large fines. To be safe, never download an album that hasn't yet been released officially.

About the Author

Arlen Hershey has been writing science curriculum for informal science education organizations since 2006. She has written for Experiencia and Sea World. She has a bachelor's degree in biology from the University of Illinois.

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