Sep 19, 2003 02:43 PM
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(Updated Sep 19, 2003 02:45 PM)
Basically, there are 2 ways in which u can download music from the net, either by using legitimately licensed subscription-based websites or p2p file sharing networks.
Legitimately Licensed subscription-based websites provide unlimited MP3 downloads of music that has been legitimately licensed from established record labels & artists. The legitimate music download websites, such as eMusic & Pressplay, are increasing in popularity because u can download music that is virus free, controversy free with excellent Mp3 sound quality.
P2P File sharing networks(also called'peer to peer') are websites that give u the ability to download any type of files online(music, movies, games & videos) directly from the computers of other members within ur peer to peer network, hence the term file sharing. And, despite the shutdown of the original Napster & copyright-infringement lawsuits from the music & movie industry, p2p file sharing networks continue to thrive online.
What are the legalities of using P2P file sharing networks?
Although, on APRIL 25, 2003 a federal judge in Los Angeles ruled that Streamcast(parent of Morpheus software) & Grokster were not liable for breaking copyright infringement laws when using their free file sharing software, the Recording Industry Association Of America(RIAA) has recently started a campaign to track down & sue people who are file sharing online.
How can the record industry find out my identity?
All online networks, including P2P file sharing networks, must use specific identifying information when connecting to other computers in order to upload or download files. And, because of a recent court victory for the record industry(although Verizon with the help of the ACLU is appealing the verdict) Internet service providers must, if requested, provide the names of download music file swappers to the RIAA.
Won't technological advances & new software protect my online identity?
In a word, Yes. The truth is that in our'hi-tech world' we now live in, technology will always evolve around problems & provide effective solutions. For example, some p2p file sharing swappers are already using advanced technology, including anonymous surfing software, that's designed to hide their online identity.
I too, use an anonymous surfing software known as an IP Blocker. This software hides my IP Address from other people on the internet. I found it through Kazaa.
But, with this being said, u're safest & most reliable solution for getting music downloads off the Internet is by using the'legitimately licensed' music download subscription-based websites.
Can I get viruses from downloading music online?
When u are downloading or receiving ANY file from the Internet, it's extremely important that u do what u can to protect urself from viruses or so-called Trojan horses. How? By keeping up-to-date with the latest anti-virus software. It's extremely critical, whether u plan to use a file sharing network or not, to always have a good virus scan software program that will stop viruses, Trojans, worms, etc. BEFORE they infect ur PC. Also, Firewalls can protect u from hackers who try to break into computers.
If u feel ur anti-virus software is not up-to-date, McAfee.com & Norton.com both provide effective & affordable anti-virus software solutions for u to choose from.
How can I download music that doesn't have spyware?
It's a fact that many freeware & shareware downloads, like P2P file sharing, contain'adware' and/or'spyware' programs. Spyware is any software that secretly works in the backround of ur PC gathering information & performing activities hidden to u. The best way to download music & avoid spyware is to invest a little money & buy a'clean' spyware free music downloads solution such as using legitimate music download websites or the iShareIt file sharing network.
How can I get rid of adware & spyware on my computer?
Simply trying to un-install the application associated with adware or spyware many times will NOT remove them from ur computer. And, because it can be extremely confusing & even nearly impossible to determine if spyware is included in many file sharing networks, it's highly recommended that u have a quality spyware detection & remover tool on hand.
