File sharing is the process of sharing computer data or space in a computer network. It also can mean sharing files in a network. File sharing allows people to use the same file or files.
P2P (Peer 2 Peer) software allows users to share files via the Internet. After P2P software is installed, computers are linked via the Internet to share these files. This is usually illegally. The use of file sharing software is one of the largest sources of virus, Trojan and data mining infections. Should you use these programs, be sure that you are aware of the risks to you and your computer. These products can lead to adware infiltrating your computer and making you view advertisements and pop-ups, and even hijacking your web browser.
If you install any P2P programs, make sure you do the following:
- Read the license agreement during the installation
- Monitor your children’s use of the software
- Check what is being downloaded/uploaded
- Run virus and spyware checks frequently
- Use search engines for problems that other users have encountered