This article compares the differences between legal music
download sites VS file sharing networks.
1) Music files available for download:
The p2p file sharing networks heavily out number the legal music
sites when it comes to the amount of files available for
download. A p2p application provides millions of unlimited mp3
music files, while a legal music download site provides
legitimately licensed music files in the hundreds of thousands.
2) The cost of downloading music:
You can download p2p file sharing networks for free, or for a
very cheap one-time fee. A legal music download site is usually
either "subscription-based" or "pay-per-download". A legal site
will also usually charge extra for the ability to rip or burn
music.
3) Variety of files available for download:
A legal music site mainly provides ONLY music files for
downloading. A p2p application gives you, besides music files,
full movie, game, video, software, TV show and ring-tone files
to download as well.
4) Legal Issues & Controversy:
Legitimate legal music download sites are completely free of
controversy and 100% legal to use. P2p file sharing networks,
while legal, are not without lawsuit concerns and controversy
due to how the file sharing technology can be used.
If you choose to use a p2p file sharing program, there are
potential risks you need to be aware of, including:
Lawsuit Risks - Peer to peer file sharing networks have
been ruled legal in a court of law. However, if you download and
share "copyrighted material" you could risk becoming targeted,
and possibly sued, by the RIAA (Recording Industry Association
of America).
Virus And Privacy Risks - In using a file sharing
application, you risk the possibility of installing harmful
spyware, viruses, worms and malware on your computer. And if
that's not bad enough, many p2p applications also leave you
exposed to online hackers and identity thieves that can steal
you personal information.
Legal Music Download Sites VS P2P File Sharing - Summary:
At first glance the p2p file sharing networks may seem to offer
an easy way to get unlimited free file downloads. But remember,
nothing is really free and this is especially true with the p2p
file sharing applications. The file sharing programs come with a
price of increased privacy and security threats, and potential
RIAA lawsuit risks.
The legitimately licensed music sites, that provides downloads
of music legally licensed from the record labels and artists
themselves, are the only way to get safe and legal music
downloads online.
About the author:
Article by Anna Rowe, webmaster of a popular
online music
download site that provides
free mp3 music download reviews and
quality online music download solutions.
