File Sharing Software

[rlsoden]

I've been reading that routers act as a hardware firewall. I'm going to be getting broadband shortly and will have 3 computers. I'm just wondering if I will be able to use programs like napster,bearshare,limewire, etc. with a router. Will I be able to download but not upload? One of the main reasons for getting broadband is because of programs like these.

[cyberskye]

Depends on the router. Most offer NAT which has some protection as a side effect. Unless you specifically configure it otherwise, the router will refuse or drop unsolicited connection attempts from the outside. If a packet is a response to a request from the LAN-side of the router, then it will be allowed to pass. I have 3 boxes running off a Linky 4 port and they all use Napster - concurrently sometimes - behind the same single ip address. I just have each box use a different port to connect.

If you are running P2P sharing apps then you want a software firewall as well. A router will only affect inbound connections - no help against trojans. Check out ZA or Tiny if you are comfortable with rulesets.

Have fun,

Skye

[YeOldeStonecat]

They've all worked for me so far without doing anything at all...Napster and WinMX. Only one I've had problems with is file receiving file transfers from within ICQ.

[Sid]

You will need to go into the router and open up the port. These will all work for you but the pot needs to be opened.