Peer-to-Peer Policy

Peer-to-Peer applications are defined as programs which allow computers to share data in the form of music, movies, games or any computer file or software over a local network and the Internet. Fordham University does not, at this time, prohibit and does not block the use of peer-to-peer applications on any part of its network. The University understands that there are legitimate academic uses for such applications. However, use of these applications has been known to cause problems, which can affect the entire University community.

Fordham University expects that all computers and networks on the campus will be used in a manner consistent with the Acceptable Use Policy and compliant with applicable law. The University is under no obligation to protect a user from a complaint or action arising from violation, or alleged violation, of the law. Users should understand that the fact that material is available for free on the Internet does not mean that accessing such material is authorized by third party rights-holders.

The University prohibits the use of Peer-to-Peer applications on its networks to transmit or exchange any music, software or other materials, in which the intellectual property is held by any third party. Any use of our network in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline. However, the University allows and encourages the use of peer-to-peer applications for legitimate academic purposes without violation of applicable law, infringement of third party rights or violation of the University's policies, including this Peer-to-Peer Policy.

The University will endeavor to see that the community is not adversely affected by the use of Peer-to-Peer programs. When such programs are seen to affect the network in a manner not consistent with University policies or are degrading the performance of the network, appropriate action will be taken against the user. In addition, bandwidth management technology will be used on the network to make sure peer-to-peer programs do not degrade network speeds.

The community should be aware that Peer-to-Peer applications are not necessarily harmless and in using them one may inadvertently consume excessive network band with, violate copyright and/or other laws, share confidential information or jeopardize computer security. Disproportionate bandwidth usage and copyright and other third party infringement are violations of the University's Acceptable Use Policy.