Technologies such as bit-torrent have given computer users the ability to download large files such as movies, music, and games. Alternatively, this technology has a been controversial since its introduction. The controversy rises over the utilization of this tool to illegally share copyrighted material such as film and music without charge. Corporations, Internet Providers (ISPs) and also the law makers are already trying find ways to curb the downloading of their copyrighted materials.

With recent news of prosecution, many individuals are concerned about the legality around P2P file sharing and the usage of bit-torrent technology. Many people will never have to concern yourself with the law knocking down their doors in search of illegally obtained digital data which is stored on unsafely your drive. On the contrary, its good to learn the facts to avoid making mistakes.

The dominant question is "Is P2P file sharing legal?" The easy answer is yes, my latest blog post Bit-torrent as well as other P2P technologies are nothing but tools. Alternatively, a knife is a tool that will be used to cut your steak or kill someone. Consequently, like some other tool, if its used inappropriately, you'll find consequences.

Files sharing is illegal if you download or distribute copyrighted material without the expressed consent of the writer or copyright holder. This can include all copyrighted music and video which will be the bulk of the content on torrents sites and content being shared via P2P applications. Downloading these files to your hard drive is the same as receiving stolen property. It is prosecutable in the majority of places in USA and U.K.

If you're using P2P networks, or torrents sites, your downloads can be traced to your computer. Your IP address is visible which uniquely identifies your computer. Additionally, the file download is hosted on a server. The owner of this server can evaluate which IP downloaded files from their servers. So your anonymity isn't protected.

There is no way to completely make sure that what you downloading is safe. There are tons of untrustworthy sites. Often spy-ware as well as other malware may be attached to files. However, some bit-torrent services often make it possible for you to preview files to be certain there authenticity.

You will find drop box services which don't use P2P technology. These sites host a sizable file for download. You may download the entire file quickly and independently from other users. In contrast, there is also a long line of men and women waiting for their turn to download the file.

In case you are into downloading movies and music but do not want to break any laws, don't worry, the sector is catching up to the technology. Netflix and other companies have produced lighting speed downloads of major files. This comes at a cost. On the contrary, you avoid breaking the law and substandard quality.