File Sharing Applications

What is File Sharing?

File sharing is the sharing of information over a peer-to-peer network. Popular examples are Kazaa, BearShare, and LimeWire. In one of these systems you allow others to download files from your computer at same time as they are downloading the same file from others, there by making one big download into many small ones. This allows users to download and share large files without having to purchase large amounts of bandwidth to host those files.

How does this effect my Internet Connection?

File sharing is a huge draw on the resources of the network that feeds your Internet connection.  When enough people are using file sharing services it can slow down and even shutdown the service to the tower that feeds your connection. 

The other major threat is that often times the files that are downloaded are full of spyware or viruses.  This is a threat because enough virus traffic can also shut down the network in your area causing loss of service.  We have seen one persons connection send out enough virus traffic to slow down the service from a particular tower. The following information was taken from Top Ten Reviews Inc. and we feel presents some very good information on the subject.

Is it Against the Law to Download Free MP3s?

Copyright laws give the person or company that’s responsible for creating an original work the right to control the distribution of that work. This control includes the price and number of the copies distributed.

P2P networks take distribution control away from the lawful owner, denying them the ability to collect profits from that distribution. This is another point where real life doesn’t correspond with common computer practices—most people wouldn’t think of shoplifting from a music store, but downloading free MP3s is considered not only okay, but hip and cool.

Some are paying the price. The entertainment industry has opened lawsuits against individual file sharers in order to dampen the public’s enthusiasm for illegal sharing. (And, likely, the entertainment industry has more money to pay lawyers than you do.)

Is there an Alternative to Downloading Free Mp3s Illegally?

An option that marries the convenience and freedom of file sharing with the safety and legality of a reputable business: music download services. Through these online stores, you can search for, inexpensively purchase and own almost any song legally, without being required to buy the entire album.

You’ll avoid spyware that disreputable file sharing services attach to their offerings, steer clear of addictive pornography and damaging computer viruses. Your conscience will be clear, your computer will be rockin’ and your wallet will still be pretty full. Music download services offer a happy ending for both the entertainment industry and for you.

References:
Sueann Allen and Joanne C. Weaver, TopTenReviews.com, TopTenREVIEWS, Inc. (2005)

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