Best Practices
.... for using Internet Music/Audio (MP3’s) and Video Sharing Programs
- Configure your computer software program so it doesn't serve/share music and video files.
- Shut down your music application when you're finished using it, and don't auto-start it at boot time. Check your system tray (lower right of task bar) to be sure the application is shut down.
- Be aware that personal music and video CD's are copyrighted material that cannot legally be copied and distributed to others.
- Review the configuration settings in your workstation to be sure that appropriate measures are taken to protect yourself from Internet abuse.
- Shut down your computer when you're gone during the day, overnight, and when you're not using it.
FAQ:
- How can running certain applications turn my workstation into a server?
Certain software allows users to share libraries of music/audio and video files with anyone else running the same application. This means that other users can search for and upload files from your computer, making your workstation a "server" to their machine. If your workstation is acting as a server, it has the potential to violate the ResNet acceptable use policy.
The University of Iowa ResNet policy prohibits activities that might negatively impact other users of the campus network, such as activities that consume excessive amounts of bandwidth. One reason for this policy is to ensure an even distribution of network resources (bandwidth) to all users. Music/audio and video servers can consume excessive amounts of bandwidth and "hog" the network.
- What are the problems with downloading music/audio and video from the Internet?
Some applications can eat up enormous amounts of bandwidth and make heavy demands on the University's network, slowing down response times for you and other users. The University of Iowa Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources Policy ("AUP") prohibits uses that interfere with the proper functioning of the University's information technology resources, as well as interference with the ability of other users to make appropriate use of resources.
Many music/audio and video files are copyrighted and therefore may not be copied or distributed under U.S. copyright law. Copying and distributing these files can be seen as piracy and can expose you to prosecution under the law, even if you are not aware of the activity. The University's AUP expressly prohibits illegal activity such as possession of improperly licensed software. The ResNet AUP prohibits participation in illegal activities and explicitly mentions distribution of copyright material.
- How do I know if the application I'm using will cause a problem?
Its difficult to tell for sure, but there are things you can do to minimize the risk. Don't leave the application running all the time because it can leave its sharing features enabled. Instead, quit the application when you are finished. Simply minimizing or closing the application window leaves your workstation vulnerable to searching by others and increases bandwidth consumption.
- Is there a way to prevent others from uploading my files?
In most cases you can prevent it. Some applications come with default settings that automatically allow file uploading from a workstation. These defaults should be changed to prevent your machine from serving as an illegal distribution point for copyrighted material.
Note: If your workstation is serving, YOU may be violating, or helping others to violate copyright law without your knowledge. Change the default settings in your application to prevent this from happening to you. Be aware that attorneys and MP3/audio and video publishers routinely monitor campuses and service providers for copyright infringements. Some of these organizations (The Recording Industry Association of America, for example) are actively pursuing legal cases against university students.
- Are there other risks with file sharing that I should be aware of?
Yes! Many of the file sharing networks (KaZaA in particular) have become riddled with virus and worm infected files. If you download a file that is infected, and open it, you are risking an infection of your computer that may result in your computer jack being shut off. You are strongly advised to take the precaution of running a virus scan on any file downloaded from a sharing network BEFORE you open it. (For example, if you have Symantec Anti-Virus installed, you simply right-click on the file name from the Explorer window, and select the "scan for viruses" option.) See the Help Desk Virus page for information on getting a copy of Symantec Anti-Virus. It's FREE for Iowa students!
Correctly Setting your Defaults
See: The University of Chicago step by step Instructions for limiting uploads from many Peer-to-Peer file sharing programs.
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Review all of the options and settings in your sharing program.
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Turn off the option to share files from your computer with other users.
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Remove all directory locations listed for sharing, if applicable. (Unselect "share download folder with other users" option)
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Keep in mind some sharing programs do not offer the option to turn off sharing files. These are very risky to use!