Peer to Peer Networks November 28, 2007 Jenni Aaker David Mize
Outline Definition of P2P P2P vs. Client/server Sharing Large Files Security and Risks Applications Discussion: current P2P issues Survey results
Peer to Peer Networks (P2P) “A method of file sharing over a network in which individual computers are linked via the Internet or a private network to share programs/files. Users download files directly from other users' computers, rather than from a central server.” -Harvard information technology Department
P2P structure Nodes ( computers )communicating to each other through with out dedicated servers or hierarchy Nodes work as both clients and servers to the other nodes in the network Users decide what can and can’t be accessed
VS. P2P vs. Client/Server Networks
Using P2P to share /large files To share large files from one node to another would use too much bandwidth and take to long. To solve that BitTorrent is a method of distributing large amounts of data widely without the original distributor incurring the entire costs of hardware, hosting and bandwidth resources The more nodes in a network the quicker and more efficient the file will travel
Risks of P2P poisoning attacks polluting attacks freeloaders insertion of viruses to carried data malware in the peer-to-peer network software itself denial of service attacks filtering identity attacks spamming
How to Protect Yourself Don't Use P2P On a Corporate Network Beware The Client Software Don't Share Everything Scan Everything
How to protect your Business Attempt to control your desktops to prevent P2P software from being installed Limit the traffic at the firewall Educate your users!!! Ex: Japanese PolicemanJapanese Policeman
Applications Limewire - File Sharing Limewire BitTorrent – File Sharing BitTorrent Joost - P2P TV Joost Skype - P2P Phone Skype
Discussion: current P2P issues Comcast Sued for Blocking P2P Sites Anti-P2P college bill advances in House
Survey Results Any specific questions that you want answered from the readings? Nope I'd like to know more about JoostJoost
Peer to Peer Networks What is it? Current issues Applications Risks? How does it work? Small connections Large files, BIT Torrent Protect your business Protect yourself File sharing Legal P2P sites? Phone, TV, media Large Networks Basic