P2P File Sharing

File sharing is the new way to give and receive access to information in the digital world. It provides access to all kind of documents including audio, video, among others. By using file-sharing software people are able to share files that might be too big to email. The dark side of this software is that it creates an easier way for scofflaws to engage in piracy. File-sharing software provides a platform for pirates to share copyrighted material that harms authors by violating their copyrights.

P2P is a peer-to-peer network. It allows users in the same network to search for shared files on the computer of other peers. This software is good when it comes to networks in a company in which all computers are connected and workers are able to retrieve files from their co-workers computers. On the other hand, this software is becoming a common bad practice in which people swap illegal copies of songs, movies, or TV shows. An example of a P2P technology is BitTorrent, according to Brian Stelter on his article “Digital Pirates Winning Battle With Studios”, this technology allows users to search instead of download free copies of movies that still in theaters in a matter of minutes. Another example is RapidShare, a password protected site that allows users to upload and download big files. Thus, the site is password protected pirates find a way to get around.