Peer-to-Peer Network

In a peer-to-peer (P2P) network, every machine plays the role of client and server at the same time. Although a P2P network has a number of advantages over the traditional client-server model in terms of efficiency and fault-tolerance, additional security threats can be introduced. Users and IT administrators need to be aware of the risks from propagation of malicious code, the legality of downloaded content, and vulnerabilities within peer-to-peer software. Security and preventative measures should be implemented to protect from any potential leakage of sensitive information and possible security breaches. Within corporate networks, system administrators need to ensure that peer-to-peer traffic complies with the corporate security policy. In addition, they should only open a minimal set of firewall ports to allow for such traffic. For end-users and/or home users, precautions must also be taken to avoid the possible spread of viruses over peer-to-peer networks.

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