Uploading is the process of sending data or files from a computer to a network. It may also refer to the process of sending a request from one’s own PC to the network.

Uploading is as easy as accomplishing a form or clicking on a link, therefore sending data “upstream.” The response of the sever or network involves the sending back of data “downstream,” which is known as a download.

Downloading refers to the process of retrieving data from a network, such as the Internet, and using or storing it in one’s computer.

Since downloads often contain more information than uploads, channels for downloads have a much greater capacity than those for uploading. This is why the speed of Internet Service Providers is based more on their download speed.
However, since upload speeds are much slower, users may encounter substantial delays when trying to upload bigger files. This may be necessary whenever a user wants to post photos or videos on social networking sites, or whenever it is necessary to share information with either friends or colleagues online. Creating blogs or personal websites could require uploading of information, images, and heavy files. If the user’s ISP happens to have a much bigger channel for downloads compared to that for uploads, the amount of time required could be much longer.

Some servers, however, have enough bandwidth to allow the upload rate to match the download rate. This is particularly important for companies which have offices at various locations, thus requiring departments to efficiently share and retrieve information from one another.