Napster

Napster is a system that facilitates file-sharing among Internet users. Instead of songs being stored on a central computer, the songs reside on users’ personal computers in the form of MP3 files. When users want to download a song using Napster, they grab it from another person’s computer.

1. Building a playlist. The software allows users to log on to a Napster server and gives them the option to download a song or pick which MP3 files to make available to others by posting their playlists online. These files (songs) remain on users’ computers and become their Napster library, or playlist.

2. Requesting a song. Users may request files for a specific song or artist. If the server finds a match, Napster puts the computer with the file in touch with the computer that wants it.

3. Direct delivery. The requester’s PC connects to the file owner’s PC. The original owner’s PC downloads the file directly to the requester’s PC, bypassing the Napster server.

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How Stuff Works: www.howstuffworks.com

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Researched by VICKI GALLAY/Los Angeles Times