| This thesis discusses the concept of using peer-to-peer networking to build collaborative environments. It shows that it is not only feasible, but also that it provides some benefits not seen with client server approaches. We show that peer-to-peer (P2P) software offers advantages in areas other than file sharing. By not having a central server, the network of peers share the bandwidth requirements and are not subject to the downtime experienced when a central server loses connectivity. We will show that well-defined algorithms enable P2P networks to efficiently distribute information, authenticate users, and secure data during transmission. |
