Mar, 2015
Can I sell protected file downloads?
Yes. s2Member has multiple layers of functionality when it comes to protected files. Basic Download Restrictions are the simplest/easiest to work with. You can sell access to any type of file; e.g., ZIP files, PDFs, audio, video, and more.
Basic Download Restrictions
By basic, we mean that you will let s2Member control access to any File Downloads that you make available. It's basic, because all you do is simply tell s2Member how many unique File Downloads are allowed within a given time-period, based on the Membership Level that a particular user has. For instance, you might make 100 ZIP files available, but you only allow Members at Level 1 to download a maximum of 10 unique files each day/week/month/year. Members at Level 2 might be allowed more, and so on.
Advanced Download Restrictions (w/ Download Keys)
By advanced, we mean that you take complete control over the availability of any File Downloads that you make available. s2Member makes it possible for you (as the site owner) to produce Download Keys (with help from the [s2File /] Shortcode), so that protected files can be served to anyone; where all Basic Download Restrictions are bypassed whenever you deem necessary. This makes it possible for you to sell access to File Downloads in creative ways; i.e. in whatever way you desire.
Protected File Download Storage (Local or Remote)
s2Member can protect File Downloads locally (/wp-content/plugins/s2member-files/*). Or, you can use s2Member's integration with Amazon S3 and/or Amazon Cloudfront; where protected File Downloads are stored remotely inside an Amazon S3 Bucket. The [s2File /] Shortcode can then generate digitally-signed URLs that lead to those files—using either Basic or Advanced methods.
Inline Delivery; Files are Not Always "Download Prompts"
s2Member has the ability to deliver File Downloads with a download prompt, or not. Without the download prompt, a file can actually be served Inline; i.e., within the browser. This is a popular technique for images, PDF files, and audio/video files. See also: Protected Audio/Video Streams for additional considerations when serving audio/video streams.
See also: Can I protect audio, video, and/or other media formats? Is JW Player supported?
