What kind of files? Well, as every torrent user knows, torrents are used exclusively to download Linux installers, open source software and live jams by hippie bands who've expressly given permission for others to share their stuff. The result is a very reliable and often very fast way to get your hands on huge files.
BitTorrent is brilliant: torrent files turn your computer into part of a swarm where data is shared as it's downloaded, so while you're downloading something from other people you're also helping others download the bits you've already got.
