Peer-to-Peer and File Sharing

Because file sharing and peer-to-peer (P2P) applications have academic purposes, Duke does not ban their use on our network. However, we recognize that some P2P activity consists of copying music and video files for personal enjoyment. If you participate in this kind of file-sharing activity, you should know three things.

1. P2P activity on campus consumes a disproportionate amount of network resources.

In an environment where we share network resources, disproportionate use of those resources is not fair. P2P applications can and do consume a significant percentage of network bandwidth. Consequently, other network activities such as academic research and file transfers can be severely compromised as direct result of P2P activity. You may be using more bandwidth than you realize. Find out how.

You can help avoid restrictions on the use of P2P applications by using your P2P applications responsibly. Learn how to reconfigure your P2P application and read tips on responsible file sharing.

2. Copyright laws apply.

If you're caught violating federal copyright laws, you will suffer the consequences. We are not the police; however, Duke must cooperate with law enforcement agencies when required.

Universities are facing increasing pressure to take action against any and all copyright violations, especially those that can be attributed to P2P. If you're unsure whether a shared file is copyrighted or not, assume it is.

3. Personal information and data are at risk.

P2P applications copy files from unknown sources to your computer, setting you up as an easy target for hacking or computer viruses. If you use a P2P application and you don't use anti-virus software, you're flirting with disaster. Find more information about anti-virus software at Duke.

Also, an increasing number of P2P applications are installing spyware. Spyware collects personal data about your Web surfing and other habits and sends that information to advertisers or other interested third parties. Some spyware causes computer problems such as blocked Internet connections. Protect your computer by understanding how spyware works.

Find out more on our File-sharing FAQ page.

Read Duke's policy on ResNet bandwidth utilization.