P2P File Sharing

This is by far one of the most interesting topics to discuss and debate on.  File sharing is an enormous function of the internet today and to name the most popular is the ability to post content on sites such as youtube, facebook, blogger, etc., where a mass audience is able to view said file. P2P file sharing is a form of file sharing in the respect that you are directly sharing a file with another peer, rather than a mass audience. We see examples of P2P file sharing and have most likely engaged in multiple forms of this many times in our lives. The most popular and controversial is that of downloading music through host sites like Napster, Kazaa, or Limewire. All of these sites have been shut down due to legal issues.  From Daniel Kreps article, "$1.5 Million Dollar Fine for Downloading 24 Songs," we see that the implications of engaging in such illegal activities can cost an individual tons of money. This shows how much P2P file sharing has affected us today. The availability and accessibility that P2P provides us is far more attractive than having to dish out money for something we much rather not pay for. Times have changed although, and the law has been working very hard to crack down on individuals who are distributing illegal files (without copyright permission) via P2P. While not all are caught, we see that the few who are, will face harsh consequences.