What is P2P networking?

Peer-to-peer, P2P, file sharing is a system of sharing files directly between network users, without the assistance or the interference of a central server. The decentralized nature of peer-to-peer file sharing removes the need for a central server, and removes the possibility of centralized control.

Because peer-to-peer file sharing networks do not require a central server, they are more scalable and more redundant than centralized file sharing schemes.

Peer-to-peer file sharing networks are also more resistant to legal attacks, because there is no one central entity to file a lawsuit against. To attack a peer-to-peer file sharing network, a claimant must file suits against individual network users.

On a P2P network, when a user wants a file, installed P2P software locates any copies of the file within the P2P network. It then allows the user to create multiple connections with several sources that have all or part of the requested file. This protocol of matching several sources to a request makes for an efficient download scheme.

When using the P2P network, you should know that if you have the bandwidth limitation for your internet usage, you should watch your bandwidth usage because others on the network are using your bandwidth, that is, while you are downloading a file, the portion of the file downloaded is also uploaded for others' downloading.