File Sharing

File Sharing, in computer science, the use of computer files on networks, where files are stored on a central computer or a shared server and are requested, reviewed, and modified by more than one individual. When a file is used with different programs or different computers, file sharing can require conversion to a mutually acceptable format. When a single file is shared by many people, access can be regulated through such means as password protection, security clearances, or file locking to prohibit changes to a file by more than one person at a time.

Peer-to-peer file sharing is the process of exchanging files—usually music files—with other people over the Internet. This type of file swapping can violate copyright laws if the people sharing files are making unauthorized copies of protected works without permission and without paying. In the late 1990s and early 2000s file-sharing services became increasingly popular. In response, the entertainment and recording industries attempted to curb this type of Internet piracy. The industries filed suit against individuals who engaged in illegal file swapping and the file-sharing services they used.

File-sharing services argued that they do not know about and cannot monitor the activities of their users, and thus should not be held responsible for their actions. Some courts agreed with that argument. However, in 2001 several record companies succeeded in a lawsuit against Napster, a music file-sharing service. In 2005 the Supreme Court of the United States handed the entertainment and recording industries a crucial victory in its ruling in Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. v. Grokster, Ltd. The unanimous decision of the Court held that two file-sharing services, Grokster and StreamCast Networks, were liable for copyright infringement when individuals used their technology to illegally download copyright-protected music and movies over the Internet. See also Computer; Local Area Network; Copyright.