Dangers of Peer to Peer Programs

A peer to peer (or "P2P") computer network uses diverse connectivity between participants in a network and the cumulative bandwidth of network participants rather than conventional centralized resources where a relatively low number of servers provide the core value to a service or application. In short, your computer connects directly to other users computers instead of a server computer.

So what are the dangers? Peer to peer software is unfortunately often used to transfer pirated software, copyrighted material, and pornography. MP3 downloads that don't originate from an authorized reseller such as iTunes are illegal and a breach of copyright law. Peer to peer software such as Kazaa and Limewire as use large amounts of your company internet connection. Due to limitations on internet connections speed, peer to peer traffic can slow transmission of email, viewing webpages, or connections to web based applications.

If your company is discovered to have illegal music or software on any company systems, the company can be held liable for lisencing fees and fines. Also computer systems can be siezed during an investigation further causing loss of productivity. This actually recently happened to a company that we know. An employee of the company was suspected to be in possetion of child pornography and had all of the company computer systems siezed. So if you feel that these risks are worth the possible consequences continue to allow peer to peer software. Otherwise may we suggest purchasing our Network Defender firewall system to block and log employees from using peer to peer software.