Very few of us need to use P2P file sharing. It is best to not download or install the software that enables you to connect to a P2P network.

If you have questions about using P2P for legal purposes, contact the Help Desk.

Protecting your computer and data

There are several good alternatives to P2P. If you still believe you need to use P2P file-sharing, follow these guidelines:

Download directly from the producer of the P2P software.

Limit the potential of rootkits that can allow intruders to access and control your system. Third party software may also contain hidden viruses, worms, Trojan horses, bots, and other malware.

Know what's being shared.

P2P software sometimes shares files you did not expect to share. Many of us blindly install software because we “heard about it” from a friend. Read software documentation carefully to be certain you understand what the software does and how to use it.

Use up-to-date antivirus, anti-malware programs.

Antivirus protection is required to be on all machines that are used on the university network. Symantec Endpoint Protection for Windows computers and Symantec Antivirus for Macintosh can be downloaded from Campus Cruiser.

Disable P2P software when you are not using it.

Some programs will automatically run without your knowledge even when they appear to be closed.

Set up separate user accounts.

Creating a user account on your computer that does not have administrative privileges can help protect from unwanted sharing of your files.

Back up your data and passwords.

Protect any files that contain sensitive information. P2P software can harvest sensitive data from your machine without your knowledge, and can cause your machine to be unstable.

Learn more.

An excellent resource for information about protecting yourself and your computer is available at Onguard Online.