Discussion: Napster

Use the web to find answers to the questions below and include a URL (when appropriate) that gives more information about answers to the questions below.

You partner should act as if you had to create a copy of this web page and edit your copy to include your answers to the questions below.

Questions

  1. What does MP3 stand for and why are MP3 files very popular (e.g., compared to .wav files)?
  2. What is Napster and why does it constitute both an ethical and practical problem on many campuses?
  3. Gnutella is a program similar to Napster, but was originally open-source. Gnutella uses a peer-to-peer communication protocol rather than the centralized server protocol of Napster. What is peer-to-peer as contrasted to the Napster model?
  4. Do you agree with the criminal cases against companies like Napster? Why or why not.
  5. Would you pay for a subscription to Napster or use one of its clones? Does Napster offer any advantages over its clones?
  6. How long will it be before people trade DVDs in additions to songs? How will it be done, given the results of Napster?

Resources