FAQ-File Sharing

It is ILLEGAL to download or share copyrighted files! These instructions are for the legal sharing of files! ResNet in no way endorses the use of file sharing software, which will not be supported by ResNet staff.

Downloading or distributing material without permission of the copyright holder is a violation of federal and state law, even if it is not for profit. The penalties can be significant, including imprisonment and fines.

What is file sharing?
File sharing is when you exchange files over the Internet. Some of the most popular ways include: (1) FTP programs, (2) IRC, and (3) Peer-to-Peer (P2P) software such as KaZaA, LimeWire, and BitTorrent.
Peer-to-Peer programs normally share files by default and will allow the maximum bandwidth available which can cause network problems.
Can I disable file sharing?
You can in most P2P programs, but not all and this does not guarantee that they will not continue to share files. The only way to be sure is to remove the program.
Why is file sharing such a problem?
Most file sharing is against the law because it involved the distribution of copyrighted materials without permission from the copyright owner, usually music (MP3) or movie files, but also TV programs, books, and images.
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has undertaken a campaign of suing people for downloading or uploading copyrighted material without permission. This effort often focuses on university students.
Can my port be deactivated?
If the university receives a copyright complaint about your file sharing activity, your port will be disabled and you will have to deal with Judicial Affairs before it can be reactivated.
What are early-settlement notices?
The university receives them from the RIAA. These are an offer to people who the RIAA believes are offering their copyrighted material for download to other users to settle out of court in lieu of a lawsuit.
Could I get sued?
Yes. The RIAA has sued over 18,000 individuals in the last few years for illegally sharing copyrighted materials.
Could filesharing get my computer infected with a virus or hacked?
Recent studies have shown that a large portion of files are infected with malware of some sort. If your computer is infected someone could access your personal information or use your computer to attach other computers, leaving only your IP address as the evidence for the authorities.
How does filesharing affect Internet speed?
When file sharing software is running on your computer you could have thousands of users connecting to your computer to download files from it. This slows down your computer and makes your internet connection slow to a crawl.
Is there a rule against filesharing on campus?
Yes. Use of any type of server software, including file sharing software, is against the ResNet Acceptable Use Policy. If you violate this policy your port will be disabled and you will face university judicial sanctions. NOTE: It is also covered under the EKU IT "Code of Ethics for Computing & Communication" in section I.A.3 where it discusses the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998.
Are there free, legal alternatives to filesharing on campus?
Yes. You can use Internet radio such as Pandora.com or TV/Movie viewing sites like hulu.com. You can also use pay services such as iTunes.