Private peer-to-peer (P2P) systems are peer-to-peer (P2P) systems that allow only mutually trusted peers to participate. This is achieved by using a central server or Direct Connect hubs to authenticate clients. Alternatively, users can exchange passwords or cryptographic keys with friends to form a decentralized network. Private peer-to-peer systems are often called friend-to-friend (F2F) or group-based systems. Friend-to-friend systems 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.

[edit] See also

• Darknet (file sharing)
• LAN messenger

[edit] 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
• Gazzera - a private 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
• p300 - is a P2P utility to chat and share directories with other hosts on your network (and only there).

[edit] References

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