If you often share files, you may have already heard about peer to peer file sharing. In this type of sharing, you use a piece of software to find computers that hold the file you want to have. Instead of using your web browser to download the file, the software is your gateway to access various kinds of files, including music, books, games, movies, and others. Whether you are a businessman or an ordinary computer user, there are a few things you have to know about peer to peer file sharing.
What is P2P?
Peer to peer, also known as P2P, is a method you can use to share and download files online. This technology allows your computer to form a network, so you can begin sharing digital files with the other computers. P2P networking requires you to use a software application to connect with the other computers on the network. Anyone can join the P2P networking technology, meaning it is easy for millions of computers to be connected to one another simultaneously.
Security Risks
It is very important to configure the P2P software properly; otherwise, it will be easy for confidential files to get shared with other people. Peer to peer file sharing users can elect which drives and folders to share online. This denotes that other users connected to the network can download and view the files stores in the designated area.
The problem with this is that you could make a mistake by accidentally choosing the drives or folders which have sensitive information. Additionally, there are viruses and other suspicious programs that can attack your drives and folders. Your private files are not only at risk, but also your identity. Once another user downloads a file over P2P networking technology, this file can no longer be deleted or retrieved. What is even more disturbing is that other users can still access a file even though you have already deleted it.
How to Be Safe When Using Peer to Peer File Sharing
Before you use P2P networking technology, you should know the pros and cons behind it. Be aware that it is often risky, especially if you do not know what you are doing. To be safe and keep your private files secure, you should do the following:
- Update your computer’s security. Your computer has built-in firewall, anti-virus, and other ways to protect you from harmful threats online. You can also download other programs to bolster your security. However, the most important thing is your computer’s security software remains updated. Do not disable your firewall as well when you activate P2P networking.
- Only go for trustworthy file sharing services. It is tempting to download illegal files, but you are exposing yourself to the dangers of the Internet. Stick to legal services to keep your files and your computer safe.
- Scan your downloads. Before you download any file, make sure it is not flagged as risky by your anti-virus program. If so, delete the file immediately.
Peer to peer file sharing is an efficient way to share and download large files from other people. However, this advancement in technology comes with a price. It pays to be careful, especially when sharing a drive or folder online.
