With the development of Internet technologies, it became necessary to constantly exchange various kinds of information at high speed. There are many ways to share files with other users. One of the most popular is the transmission of information via p2p networks.
p2p is short for peer-to-peer, which literally translates as "equal to equal". In the Russian-speaking Internet, p2p networks are also called peer-to-peer, peer-to-peer or decentralized networks.
Differences between a 2p2 network and other file-sharing networks
In ordinary file-sharing networks, files are stored on a server from which any user can download the file he needs. If the file is deleted from the server, the user will lose access to it. In addition, the download speed is limited by the server bandwidth.
There is no such server in peer-to-peer networks. All necessary files are stored on users' hard drives in folders that they have opened for public access. In p2p networks, each computer acts both as a server, giving information, and as a client, when information needs to be downloaded. This allows you to significantly increase the speed of file exchange.
Currently, hybrid p2p networks are the most widespread. In such networks, the server acts as a coordinator providing interaction between users, but it does not store any information. These networks combine both the speed of a pure 2p2 network and the reliability of a centralized network. Currently, the most popular hybrid networking protocols are BitTorrent and Direct Connect.
BitTorrent protocol
File exchange via the BitTorrent protocol occurs in parts using a special client program. During the download, scraps of files are exchanged according to the principle "you are for me - I am for you."
File transfer is coordinated using a special server - a torrent tracker. It is necessary so that network participants, the so-called peers, can find each other. This server stores file IDs, IP addresses, and client ports. Often, a torrent tracker is a site that stores information about distributed files.
Many trackers use a registration and rating system to comply with the basic principle of p2p networks. They take into account the ratio of the information downloaded and given by the user. In cases where the amount of information downloaded by the user will significantly exceed the amount of information given to him, the download option for him will be limited.
Direct Connect Protocol (DC)
File exchange via the Direct Connect protocol often occurs between users of local networks. To work in a DC network, you need a special client that connects to one or more servers, which in such a network are called hubs. Having connected to the hub, users can download files from the folders of other network members open for access.
An interesting feature of DC networks for users is the ability to exchange instant personal messages in chat.
The only significant disadvantage of p2p networks is copyright infringement. Since the exchange of files between users is virtually impossible to track, their distribution remains solely on the conscience of the participants in the peer-to-peer networks.