DC++

See also Wikipedia's article about "DC++".

DC++ (sometimes written DCpp) is software that allows users on a particular network to share files with one another, much like Limewire. Unlike other P2P software, however, DC++ can be limited to a particular network. Network dependence confers two major advantages: files are transferred between users at extremely high speeds and external agencies, such as the RIAA, are not able to directly monitor on the network. Dozens of universities including Cornell have DC++ networks that often feature terabytes of data.

Columbia's Network

For several years, Columbia had its own DC++ network that was used by several hundred users. In October 2004, however, a Spectator editorial mentioned details of the network and implored students to use it for "mature piracy." Soon thereafter, CUIT required the network to be shut down due to legal concerns. Previously, CUIT had turned a blind eye to the existence of the network. (http://74.125.95.132/search?q=cache:r5yZ7iUU7ckJ:www.columbiaspectator.com/node/44747+site:columbiaspectator.com+columbiadc&hl=en&client=safari&gl=us&strip=1)

Future Plans

Columbia currently doesn't have a widely used DC++ hub. According to CUIT policies, Columbia doesn't monitor network traffic. Therefore, there would be little risk in establishing a new hub, provided that it wasn't widely publicized.

External Links

• The original spectator article that led to DC++'s downfall:

http://74.125.95.132/search?q=cache:r5yZ7iUU7ckJ:www.columbiaspectator.com/node/44747+site:columbiaspectator.com+columbiadc&hl=en&client=safari&gl=us&strip=1

• http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/cornell-university/620110-dc-cornell.html
• http://www.cornelldc.com
• http://74.125.95.132/search?q=cache:i0wwRrA1000J:www.columbiaspectator.com/node/44907+site:columbiaspectator.com&hl=en&strip=1
• http://74.125.95.132/search?q=cache:6I_9jGK-MikJ:www.columbiaspectator.com/node/44875+site:columbiaspectator.com&hl=en&strip=1