Monday, April 14, 2008

News on Peer to Peer Technology

A range of public broadcasting firms, commercial TV stations and cable and telecommunications companies are all enthusiastic about distributing television programs via the Internet. While the existing technique makes use of centrally located computer systems, research is now being done into TV distribution through peer-to-peer systems. This type of distribution is carried out through large groups of PCs operated by normal users.
This technique enables TV programs to be transmitted almost free of charge and opens the way to new TV stations working through the Internet. In addition, this technique promises a straight connection between the program makers and the viewers. If the public broadcasting companies make use of peer-to-peer technology, the high costs of data distribution would be a thing of the past.
When using this method of transmission it is critical that the rights to the visual material be cautiously handled and protected. The use of Creative Commons licenses presents one possible solution to several legal issues.

Laure Bashour

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