microsoft building own p2p software
microsoft's labs in cambridge, england, are developing their own file-sharing software, code-named Avalanche [fun to say with an english accent. i know you're trying it right now in your head]. it will seek to compete with the likes of BitTorrent [good luck] in that it breaks larger files into smaller files for distribution and are then reassembled at their destination. according to the article, microsoft has also been in contact with both tv broadcasters and movie studios regarding the potential use of avalanche within their respective arenas at some point in the indefinite future. ironic considering all the flack BitTorrent and other file-sharing applications like it are getting in the current mediasphere. in the same article, the author states:

In BitTorrent's case, that's largely [only used for] downloading Linux distributions and cracked versions of movies.

in addition, microsoft indicates that Avalanche will have no part in illegal file-sharing. and that furthermore, it will be a very secure system. like IIS maybe? hmm, we'll see. Matt @ 5:26 PM