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File Sharing Software

© Kathleen

Since Napster seems to be the big topic of discussion these days, I've scoured the Net to find as many Napster "alternatives" as possible to download, & test. For those of you who may not be familiar, Napster is a MP3 file swapping community. Napster has been a hot topic for some time now as some of the artists are accusing Napster of illegally swapping copyrighted material. Napster is arguing this is not the case as the trading is between individuals as it not for commercial use. (It should be noted that some of the artists are supporting Napster as it promotes their music among their fans. A list of these musicians can be found on Napster.) Also, the courts are trying to reinstate a injunction against Napster. This will not only affect Napster but other file sharing communities as well. Some of the services below compensate the artists through the use of banner ads & through charging for certain downloads. Please check the each service's web site for details since there are too many to list here for each one.

CAUTION:

1. The following programs use different technologies for providing files to their users. Some are run out of a main server (such as Napster) & others derive files directly from a user's computer. Read their readme files carefully before using these programs.

2. Also, the program(s) will ask which directory you will be utilizing to allow other users to upload files from you. Be very careful in selecting the directory you allow others to access (it is best to create a directory directly under C:\) (ie: C:\Shared\). You wouldn't want others to access anything personal you may have stored on your hard drive. Believe me, I've seen the mistakes other users are making with these types of services.

3. Also, in order to use most of these services you have to have a user name & password. Ensure your user name is something ambiguous so that others cannot guess who you are. Very important in this type of forum.

4. Some of these services make available the downloading of executable files. It's a good idea to steer clear of these because bear in mind that these files are coming from someone else's computer & are a very high risk for viruses. Also, if you see a file that has the letters VBS (Visual Basic Programming Language) steer clear as well, as this extension could be a transmitter of viruses.

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