Finding stable hosting sites for providing downloads to Members and Visitors has become a bit of a game.
Many of us who post downloads have settled on a few that seem to be better at retaining the files without too much hassle. None are perfect, some have more flaws than others, and many can be confusing about where to actually click to start the download or the wait timer. And yes, those Captchas to try to fill in can be maddening. It is impossible to post everything on what some people consider their favorite download hosts because:
1) There are dozens...maybe hundreds
2) Everybody seems to have their favorite based on their own needs or experiences, but these may not be the best for those of us that DO the uploading and therefore have to maintain the links or accounts.
Here are some tips...and I am using JumboFiles as an example because it is typical, but others are very similar.
On the download hosting site it is NOT necessary to download the "Livid Download Manager" (or whatever it may be called)..Read carefully...click the much smaller "Download" box.
If there are any extra TABS on the page, check those...often the Free Download is tucked away on them.
Any big HUGE buttons that say DOWNLOAD are for the 'download manager'. Do not click those!
Or, sometimes you can setup your own free account, log in, and you will get a simple direct download link instead of the confusing Where Do I Click? page.
It is usually never necessary to PURCHASE any accounts or time periods...though the hosting site would like it if you do....that's why they promote it so much and make "Free" so confusing.