I've created a download/upload section for my site a while ago, and it's growing all the time (currently contains around 120 3d models/textures).

I've noticed that hiding the url and pulling it from the database works when using internet explorer. A link is pulled from the database using id: http://mysite/redirection.asp?ID=224 - http://mysite/redirection.asp?ID=224  for example.

When using Netscape however, the full path to the file is visible in the address bar after clicking the redirection link.

Is there a way to fully hide the source? I'll be selling Plugins in a few weeks from now, and it would be a tremendous setback for my business partner if people can just pass on the link to their friends and spread it like wildfire.

In fact..what IS the best way or method to distribute paid content across the web. Is there a way to serialize zipped content for example? Any other methods?

The best way is to keep all files you want to distribute to paying customers exclusive is to keep all files outside the web publishing directory.

Once a customer has access to download the script, create an ADODB stream object, and stream the file to the clients browser.  The file will be shown as downloading from http://www.yoursite.com - www.yoursite.com .

Here is a good ADODB Stream object tutorial:
http://authors.aspalliance.com/chrisg/default.asp?article=49 - http://authors.aspalliance.com/chrisg/default.asp?article=49

The ADODB stream object solution only allows people to download off your site through a server side script.