Peer to Peer File Sharing
Peer-to-Peer does not refer to one particular program or company. Peer-to-Peer describes the nature of the protocol used to retrieve information. Instead of using a typical download, where one user connects to a server to download a file with one stream, peer-to-peer software connects many people to download a file in pieces using multiple streams. This presents two problems for CWU:
- Peer-to-Peer file sharing is bandwidth intensive. It overwhelms network resources and degrades service for all users.
- As an Internet Service Provider, CWU must police the illegal acquisition of copyrighted material and intellectual property. Campuses all over the country are being legally challenged by the RIAA, and CWU does not intend to be one of them. Remember that illegal downloading is just that - illegal. BBC News article on P2P court case
Examples of Peer-to-Peer Networks and Clients:
| Network | Clients | |
|---|---|---|
| Ares | Ares Client | |
| eDonkey | aMule, eDonkey, eMule, and others | |
| Gnutella | Acquisition, BearShare, Grokster, iMesh, LimeWire, Morpheus, Shareaza, and others | |
| BitTorrent | Azureaus, BitComet, BitSpirit, BitTorrent, µtorrent |
What is Allowed
Although we do not want you to use Peer-to-Peer software on ResNet, we do want you to use the network. Examples of programs that are not prohibited on Resnet are:
-
- Online Games:
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- Internet Radio and Music: iTunes, Rhapsody, Last.fm, Slacker, Pandora
Removing Peer-to-Peer software
Our Resnet Cleaning Script, which will remove most spyware infections. We recommend running this script after using the P2P software's uninstallation program.
Peer-to-Peer Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ok for me to use a Peer-to-Peer application at home and turn it off when I come to school?
The Acceptable Use Policy specifically states that you are responsible for the software on your computer. This includes software that you know and do not know is running. Peer-to-peer software is often running in the background even when it is turned off. Not having it installed on your computer is the safest option.
Why can't I use my music downloading software? I paid for it, and it is legal!
The CWU Peer-to-Peer software rules are not about legality. They are about keeping the network operational. We do not have the bandwidth available to allow peer-to-peer downloads. Many BitTorrent files are also legal to download, but this traffic puts too much strain on network resources.