Private P2P networks are peer-to-peer (P2P) networks that only allow some mutually trusted computers to share files. This can be achieved by using a central server or hub to authenticate clients, in which case the functionality is similar to a private FTP server, but with files transferred directly between the clients. Alternatively, users can exchange passwords or keys with their friends to form a decentralized network. Private peer-to-peer networks can be classified as friend-to-friend (F2F) or group-based. Friend-to-friend networks only allow connections between users who know one another. Group-based networks allow any user to connect to any other, and thus they cannot grow in size without compromising their users' privacy. Some software, such as WASTE, can be configured to create either group-based or F2F networks.

See also

• Darknet (file sharing)
• Friend-to-friend
• Peer-to-peer

Software

• Aimster - early P2P software that used a buddy list to restrict sharing
• Direct Connect - file sharing and chat using private hubs
• ExoSee - a private community-oriented file-sharing program
• Groove - corporate groupware based on P2P technology
• n2n - peer-to-peer VPN software
• PowerFolder - private file sharing for local area networks
• TinTin++ - instant messaging and file sharing over private connections using the MudMaster Chat Protocol.
• Turtle F2F - instant messaging and file sharing with private connections only
• WASTE - private P2P software suitable for groups of 10 to 50 users

External links

• How to disappear completely: A survey of private peer-to-peer networks. To appear at the SPACE 2007 workshop, July 2007.